Transport for NSW has launched a State-wide campaign to raise awareness about the importance of planning ahead, advising motorists to make a ‘Plan B’ to get home safely after a night out.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Paul Toole called on drivers and motorcyclists in regional areas to share their Plan B for a chance to take out the State’s fifth annual Win a Swag competition.
“With more people visiting regional NSW this festive season, I’m asking everyone to take extra care on the road because road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Mr Toole said.
“Tragically, two-thirds of the lives lost on NSW roads occur in the country, and drink driving is still one of the biggest factors,” he said.
“This year alone, we’ve seen more than 175 people die on country roads, and at least 17 per cent of those involved an illegal level of alcohol.”
Mr Toole said the Plan B Win a Swag competition would see more than 340 pubs, clubs and bottle shops in western and southern NSW invite patrons to register their Plan B this December for the chance to win a swag.
“Drinking alcohol increases your risk of being involved in a crash, which is why campaigns like this are so important to drive home the importance of planning ahead,” the Minister said.
“Whether it’s calling on someone for a lift or rolling out a swag on a mate’s floor, you need to have a Plan B before going out during the festive season.”
He said regional radio stations would also be giving away taxi vouchers to listeners who called in with their Plan B as part of the campaign.
“No matter how short the journey is or how well you know the road, it is not worth risking your life, or someone else’s,” Mr Toole said.
“The message is simple: if you’re drinking, don’t drive,” he said.
