SYKES: FATIGUE, ALCOHOL AND SPEED A FATAL MIX

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, has appealed for north east Victorian motorists to stay safe during the Christmas-New Year holiday period.

Dr Sykes, who is The Nationals Spokesperson for Police and Emergency Services, urged motorists planning to travel on the state’s roads to consider the three major causes of fatal accidents – fatigue, alcohol and speed.

“Driver fatigue is a factor in up to one in three serious accidents as drivers try and push themselves to the limit to arrive at their holiday destination as early as possible,” he said.

“The biggest problem with fatigue is that by the time drivers realise they have driven too far without a break, it’s often too late.”

Dr Sykes said driving under the influence of alcohol was also a major issue during the festive season.

“It’s very easy to have a couple too many drinks and jump in your car, but drivers need to be aware of the danger to themselves and other road users.

“The best advice I can give drivers is that if you are planning to have a few drinks, catch a taxi or arrange a non-drinking driver to take you home. It’s just not worth the risk.”

Dr Sykes said combining driver fatigue, alcohol and speed was a lethal cocktail for disaster.

“Already this year 334 people have died on the state’s roads. That’s 334 people who will not be celebrating Christmas with families on Saturday.

“Even more disturbing is that more than half the deaths occurred on country roads.

“I’m appealing to drivers, particularly those going on long trips with their families, to take their time, drive responsibly and return home safely.”

Dr Sykes also urged motorists to spare a thought for police and other emergency workers who are often left to deal with the trauma of deaths on our roads.

“Police will be out in force doing everything they can to ensure our roads are as safe as they can possibly be during the festive season; however drivers must also play their part if we are going to reduce the potential for carnage.”

He joined with Nationals Leader, Peter Ryan, in appealing to motorists to keep country Victorian roads fatality free.

“In the context of a summer holiday, it doesn’t matter whether you arrive 10 or 15 minutes earlier. It’s better to make sure you arrive alive with your family intact,” Mr Ryan said.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989