22 December 2011
Celebrate Christmas Safely from the Road Safety Authority
As the country prepares to celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is today, 22nd December 2011, urging all road users to take personal responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others on the roads.
Mr. Noel Brett, CEO, RSA had this message for road users, “I would appeal to all drivers to drive safely this Christmas by slowing down, not driving while impaired, through either drink, drugs or fatigue and to always wear a seatbelt. Pedestrians and cyclists need to take special care when out and about this Christmas. With fewer hours of daylight, wear something reflective. Be safe by being seen!”
Pedestrians and cyclists should make sure that they can be clearly seen by using high visibility reflective material such as an arm-band, Sam Browne belt or high-vis jacket – particularly if they are travelling on country roads late at night or in poor light.
Mr. Brett added “While this may be a time for celebration for most people, tragically there are 177 families sitting down to Christmas dinner, who are grieving the loss of a loved one as a result of a fatal crash in 2011. Let’s ensure that no more families in this country suffer as they do and that this Christmas is a safe one for all.”
“If you are going out for a drink over the Christmas break, leave the keys at home; get a taxi, minibus, public transport or take turns to designate a driver. And don’t forget that time is the only way to get alcohol out of your system, so don’t assume you are safe to drive the morning after a night out”.
He also asked drivers to “Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, and expect the unexpected. You simply do not know what is waiting around the next corner”.
For those who are looking for a last minute Christmas gift, Mr. Brett suggests giving a safety gift. This could include a voucher for driving lessons with an RSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) for the learner driver in your home. Or if you have a relative or friend who has young children why not consider giving them a voucher towards the purchase of a new child car seat, especially if they are upgrading seats soon. For the avid walker or jogger, why not give high visibility or reflective clothing or maybe a torch.”
The RSA would like to take this opportunity to wish all road users a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
For further information, please contact:
RSA Communications Department 096 25008