Use caution on the road this Easter

Truck Assist urges road users to be mindful of increase traffic and retail demands over Easter. 

With Easter and the school holidays fast approaching, Truck Assist and it's partner Brand, National Transport Insurance - Australia’s number one truck insurer, is reminding all drivers to exercise caution and consideration as road use peaks over the coming weeks.

NTI's Chief Executive Officer, Mr Tony Clark says the first holiday break of the year presents an opportunity for professional drivers to lead by example, and for all road users to be mindful of the increased demands across the retail sector over the Easter period.

“NTI’s National Truck Accident Research Centre is Australia’s largest database of heavy vehicle major accidents. We know for a fact that during this time of year, those servicing the wholesale and retail goods industry experience the most misfortune on the roads at this time of year,” said Mr Clark.

“Our aim this year is to encourage all road users – heavy and light vehicles to buck the trend by acknowledging we all play a part in increased retail demands and so it really does pay to exercise patience and consideration on the roads over Easter. Put simply: no trucks, no food, no shopping over Easter.”

The most recent Major Crash Investigation Report suggests many of the incidents occurring at this time of year are avoidable. In fact, among the most common is hit in rear.

“As a starting point, reducing Easter road incidences can be as simple as not cutting in front of trucks that have a much longer braking distance. We remind all road users to travel at safe breaking distances, especially in consideration of weather conditions,” said Mr. Clark.

“We see a trend of merging and hit in rear being an issue at this time of year, so let’s work together to do something about it and make the roads a safer place for everyone. They are easy accidents to avoid – just be patient.”

Truck Assist advises the following points for consideration before taking to the roads this Easter to help ensure a hassle free, safe journey:

• Give plenty of notice before merging in front of trucks.
• Account for extra time on the roads. Increased traffic means your journey is likely to take longer.
• Consider the braking distance for your vehicle, relative to speed, size of vehicle and road conditions.
• Remember to be patient indicate and consider vehicles around you when making sudden movements in traffic.