Road Safety: A Crucial Priority During the Festive Season
As the festive season kicks off and you are planning holidays, road trips and celebrations it’s crucial to remember that road safety should always be a top priority. Whether you’re travelling interstate or staying in Canberra, keeping safety in mind can ensure a smooth enjoyable journey for everyone on the road.
Increased Risk During Summer
- More drivers on the road during the summer months
- Road safety is a priority for the whole community
- Plan your trip and take breaks to avoid fatigue
Impaired Driving: A Major Concern
With more people celebrating during the summer months, driving under the influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs is dangerous. ACT Policing will have the power to immediately remove people who choose to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol by imposing immediate licence suspensions.
Penalties for impaired driving include:
- Immediate fine for first-time low-range drink drivers
- Six-month loss of licence under the new infringement scheme
- Roadside drug testing for cocaine starting from 1 January 2025
Every ACT Policing vehicle can enforce the road rules anywhere, anytime. So if you drink or take illegal drugs and drive, you can stop it…or cop it.
Plan Your Trip and Take Breaks
It’s important to plan your trip and take regular breaks. Plan to stop, rest, and stretch your legs to stay alert. With more motorists on the road in summer, particularly on the Kings Highway, it’s crucial to follow these safety tips:
- Put the phone away
- Slow down and drive to the conditions
- Be patient during expected periods of congestion
- Leave a safe distance with the vehicle in front
- Rest when tired
Keep Distractions at Bay
Research shows that driver distraction increases the risk of an accident. Taking your eyes off the road for more than two seconds doubles the risk of a crash, with mobile phones often being the source of that distraction. Leave your phone alone while driving, as mobile device detection cameras are in operation in the ACT and fines apply.
Drive so others survive this summer. Find out more about road safety measures and penalties in place to ensure a safe journey for all.
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