Don't Rush This Easter, Drivers Told

Illawarra Mercury

Thursday March 24, 2005

By GABRIELLE DUNLEVY

DRIVERS who try to rush to their Easter holiday destinations are likely to get caught, with police out in force for Operation Tortoise.

The long weekend road blitz, which begins tonight and ends on Monday night, will focus on speeding, drink-driving and seatbelt and helmet offences.

Acting Senior Sergeant John Klepczarek said six people died in crashes on NSW roads during the same operation last year.

Snr Sgt Klepczarek said roads were likely to be congested due to the combination of wet weather and holiday traffic, but drivers should not be impatient.

"People get frustrated and want to do some dangerous manoeuvres just to get one or two cars in front, and it's not as if you're going to get to your destination any quicker," he said.

Snr Sgt Klepczarek said tonight and tomorrow morning would be the busiest times on the roads, so drivers should keep this in mind when planning their trips - and also allow for regular breaks.

One in three fatigue-related crashes in the past five years in NSW occurred on the Princes Hwy, so drivers are urged to look out for the early warning signs of tiredness.

Wollongong Lord Mayor Alex Darling, Shellharbour Mayor David Hamilton, Kiama Mayor Sandra McCarthy and Shoalhaven Deputy Mayor John Anderson this week launched the joint campaign "Stay Fresh on the Princes Hwy".

They released a pamphlet listing all driver reviver stops on the Princes Hwy from Wollongong to Eden, with details of their facilities, and which stops are suitable for caravans.

The pamphlet is available from service stations along the Princes Hwy. Drivers can also visit www.rta.nsw.gov.au or call 132213.

OPERATION TORTOISE

? Double demerit points for speeding, seatbelt and helmet offences come into effect today and end on Monday night.

? During the Easter holidays last year, 14,899 motorists were issued with 15,396 fines which incurred double demerit points.

? Over the same period, 1494 motorists had their licences suspended due to speeding or double demerits.

? P-plate drivers are reminded that they are at the greatest risk of losing their licences during double demerit periods, and novice drivers are subject to a zero blood alcohol limit.

DRIVER FATIGUE WARNING SIGNS

Early warning signs of driver fatigue include:

? yawning

? blinking

? tired, dry or sore eyes

? feeling restless

? slow reactions

? loss of concentration

? making fewer and larger steering corrections

? not seeing road signs

? having difficulty staying in the lane

© 2005 Illawarra Mercury

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