Media Release: Waikato District Council, 6 October 2014
Drivers urged to rest
Drivers are being urged to rest and rejuvenate in an effort to reduce crash statistics.
Over the last five years, driver fatigue has been attributed to 54 fatalities and 141 serious injuries in the Waikato region alone.
Waikato District Council road safety staff, Police and Whatawhata Rugby club joined forces to encourage drivers to take a break at a Council led fatigue stop in Whatawhata on Sunday 5 October. The Fatigue stop was one of three held on SH39 over the snow season targeting those heading to and from Ruapehu.
Waikato District Council Road Safety Coordinator, Megan Jolly, sees the stops as a positive way to engage with motorists.
“It is a great opportunity for us to chat to drivers, offer free refreshments and provide information.. It also allows us to collect key data on driver fatigue.”
To date over 500 people have stopped this season, with many in need of a break. In particular one driver, a tourist, stopped after driving for six hours without a break. The recommendation is to rest for at least 10 minutes every two hours.
Ms Jolly said drivers were also reminded to catch up on lost sleep before getting behind the wheel, as well as stopping for a power nap if needed. “That was particularly important for those heading to and from ski-fields who were already likely to be tired,” she said.
“It’s pretty simple – just don’t drive tired. If you do, you’re putting yourself and others at risk.”