Canberra drivers are being asked to stay safe, avoid fatigue and take responsibility in a new safety campaign from the Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate.
Announcing the launch of the Kings Highway campaign, Minister for Transport and City Services, Chris Steel said drivers needed to take responsibility for everyone arriving safely when heading to the coast this holiday season.
“With restrictions eased, there is likely to be larger numbers of people than usual driving to the South Coast this summer holidays,” Mr Steel said.
“Everyone deserves a break, but with so many cars on the road we are asking drivers to be particularly mindful of safety on the Kings Highway this Christmas season,” he said.
“No-one wants to cause a serious accident or fatality that keeps families apart at Christmas and holidays.”
Mr Steel said the campaign reminded all motorists to slow down and be patient during expected periods of congestion.
“If you don’t have to overtake the vehicle in front of you, then don’t,” he said.
The Minister said Kings Highway was the main commuter route for many Canberrans who visited the South Coast, with an average of more than 7,000 drivers using the Highway each day during the peak of the holiday period.
He said that number was expected to be even higher this year with people travelling closer to home.
“Reducing speed, maintaining the speed limit and leaving a safe distance with the vehicle in front can reduce risks, by giving you more time to react to unexpected circumstances,” he said.
“There are rest areas along the route to the south coast – use them to stretch your legs, get some fresh air and take a break,” Mr Steel said.
