RACQ has urged families to stay safe on the roads this Easter after Queensland suffered through the worst road toll in two decades during the same period last year.
RACQ spokesperson Lauren Ritchie said it was every driver’s responsibility to ensure they were up to the challenge of getting behind the wheel to help avoid their holiday ending in tragedy.
“All road users must do their bit to avoid the Fatal Five causes of road crashes – drink driving, speeding, fatigue, distraction and not using seatbelts,” Ms Ritchie said.
“It’s important to map out the journey in advance, plan to pull over at a rest stop every two hours for at least 15 minutes and arrange to share the driving, if possible.
“When you’re out on the road, watch for signs of fatigue and if you’re feeling drowsy, lacking concentration or making mistakes, pull over for a break.”
CareFlight Director of Clinical Operations Dr Emmeline Finn said RACQ CareFlight Rescue crews airlifted 64 people over the Easter school holidays last year, including 18 patients injured as a result of serious vehicle accidents.
“Additionally, half our patients treated last Easter were injured in off-road bike accidents,” Dr Finn said.
“Please don’t forget about safety practices when riding motorbikes and quadbikes off-road because this is often where our clinical teams see some of the worst injuries.
“Whether you’re planning to travel in the car or just enjoy a recreational ride over the break, take the time to be well prepared; be safe and enjoy the holidays, not a ride in the back of the RACQ CareFlight Rescue chopper.”
Ms Ritchie said RACQ devoted nearly $5 million annually to Queensland’s community helicopter rescue network.
“RACQ CareFlight Rescue provides life-saving treatment in times of need but these holidays we hope the choppers never have to leave the hangar,” she said.
RACQ’s online trip planner and road conditions report provides motorists with the latest maps and safest routes at www.racq.com/roadconditions.
