20 December 2013

Make it easy for others to pass safely these holidays

The AA is urging slower drivers to make an extra effort to let others pass on the roads this summer.

With the extended lower speed tolerance in force for all of December and January, drivers are going to be even more aware of their speed than usual and not wanting to go over the limit, says AA General Manager of Motoring Affairs Mike Noon.

“All drivers should have by now got the message about driving to the conditions and keeping their speed under the speed limit," says Mr Noon.

“The AA also wants drivers to keep a close eye on whether they are travelling slower than those around them.

“Slower drivers can help keep frustration levels down on the roads by making it easier for others to get past.”

The key advice from the AA for slower drivers or people towing trailers is:
• Don’t let your speed creep up when you get to a passing lane. Keep in the left lane and you may even want to slow down to help more faster drivers pass.
• On the open road if you have vehicles building up behind you, regularly look for safe places to pull over and let them past. They will likely give you a toot or wave to say thanks.

If you find yourself behind a slower vehicle, be patient and wait for a passing lane or a safe opportunity to overtake. Don't try a risky overtaking manoeuvre, the roads will be busy and chances are there will be oncoming traffic.

“This is one of the busiest and highest risk times on our roads, so the AA urges all drivers to be extra careful, considerate and to keep safe," says Mr Noon.

“It is also good to allow for a bit more following distance than usual, make sure you take regular breaks to fight fatigue, stay off your phone and, of course, don’t speed or drink and drive.”

The New Zealand Automobile Association is an incorporated society with over one million members. It represents the interests of road users who collectively pay over $2 billion in taxes each year through fuels excise, road user charges and GST.

ENDS

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