The Chief Executive of the Australian Trucking Association, Stuart St Clair, has asked motorists to slow down and take regular rest breaks on the roads this Christmas.

“At Christmas, motorists often feel under pressure to push on to their destination, even though they’re tired. They don’t want to disappoint their family and friends,” Mr St Clair said.

“It’s better to be late for your Christmas barbecue than on time for an accident.

“That’s why the ATA is asking motorists to slow down on the roads this Christmas and take regular rest breaks: have a snack, a stretch and give the kids a run around.

“There are always a lot of trucks on the road in the run up to Christmas, delivering the food that will be served at every Christmas dinner and the presents under every Christmas tree.

“Here are a few tips that motorists can follow to make their trip safer:

• Don’t cut in front of trucks as they slow for traffic lights or when you’re out on the highway. A truck needs a greater distance to stop than you expect, because they are much heavier than cars.
• Don’t overtake trucks when they are turning. Trucks often need to turn from the centre lane at intersections and corners, so stay well back. Remember, if you can’t see the truck driver’s side mirrors, the truck driver can’t see you.
• Please be patient if the truck in front of you slows down when it’s going up a hill. If you want to overtake, wait till you can see enough clear road ahead.”

Mr St Clair said more motorists than ever before are aware of how to share the road safely with trucks, thanks to the ATA’s touring safety exhibition, the Road Ahead.

“In 2011, more than 11,000 people visited the Road Ahead, and the ATA’s presenters delivered 215 presentations at 29 schools,” Mr St Clair said.

“Since we launched the Road Ahead in 2008, more than 66,000 people have visited the exhibition and picked up safety tips you don’t get when you’re going for your licence.

“The Road Ahead is funded by the trucking industry, including the owners, managers and employees of businesses like Simon National Carriers, Annric Bulk Haulage, K&S Transport and D&P Haulage.”