By Bill Winters, executive officer of RoadSafe Goulburn Valley
IS THERE a better time of the year to enjoy a well-earned break from the challenges of work and life in general? Warmer weather, annual leave, the family says yay—let us go somewhere nice.
Being the one and only driver I need to be prepared for this epic journey with the kiddie widdies. We need to set a few rules-Yes?
What is it with kids and these electronic gadgets—at least with earphones the noise is suppressed. My job is not to get distracted by them and to concentrate on getting us to our destination safely.
There is so much to be aware of, isn’t there? By experience I know the kids will become fatigued and irritable when sitting in the car for too long. The plan is to take regular breaks each two hours and stretch the legs and let my eyes re-focus.
My trusty side kick advises that there are quite a few challenges when driving on regional roads, which are very different than city driving.
There are speed limit changes established at dangerous and high collision intersections. Often, we can observe emergency vehicles displaying their flashing red and blue or magenta lights, all vehicles must slow to 40km/h whilst passing emergency vehicle. Farmers and contractors move oversize farm
machinery and livestock across roads, they erect signage indicating that motorists must give way to stock and if not obeyed a penalty notice could apply.
Not to forget wildlife hazards which could cause severe damage and/or injury—do not want that at all! So, for me, off to bed to get well rested for tomorrow’s journey.
Safe motoring to all!
