Don’t Trust Your Tired Self While Driving

Published on 25 March 2024

Motorists are being urged not to trust their tired selves as they take to the roads this Easter.

With Easter not falling in the school holidays this year, many people will be heading off to see family and friends over the long weekend holiday period.

“Don’t trust your tired self when setting off on a journey,” said Leeton Shire Council Road Safety Officer, Stephanie Puntoriero.

“Remember, fatigue-related crashes can happen on any trip no matter how long or short or what time of day.”

“It’s important to think about how tired you are before driving, recognise the early warning signs when driving, and know what to do to avoid driving tired,” she said.

Ms Puntoriero said that fatigue is one of the top three killers on NSW roads, along with speeding and drink driving.

“The key message for all drivers is that you don’t have to be severely fatigued to impair your driving ability, you can simply just be tired,” she said.

“Tired from a long day, tired after a big night, tired from concentrating on the road while the kids talk in the back seat.”

“The risk is even greater when you are driving at times when you would normally be asleep, as well as in the early to mid-afternoon,” Ms Puntoriero said.

Fatigue-related crashes are almost three times as likely to be fatal than crashes not involving fatigue.

Drivers who are asleep can't brake.

Ultimately, there is no excuse for unsafe behaviours on the road because it can have tragic and life-changing consequences.

Leeton Shire Council together with NSW Highway Patrol reminds motorists the Easter double demerit period will apply from midnight Thursday 28 March 2024 until Monday 1 April 2024.

In addition, on Thursday 28 March 2024 motorists are reminded that school zones are in operation. Additional penalties can apply for certain offences committed in school zones.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:

Stephanie Puntoriero
Road Safety Officer (Tue-Thu)
T. (02) 6953 0911
E. stephaniep@leeton.nsw.gov.au