Thousands of West Australians expected to take to the road this holiday weekend are being urged to drive safely – and also embrace a new push to be more courteous and understanding toward all road users while behind the wheel.
Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts today launched the State Government’s newest road safety campaign – ‘Kindness Travels’ which begins airing in print, television and radio media from tomorrow.
The campaign is timed to coincide with the Western Australia Day long weekend, when traffic throughout the State is expected to increase significantly.
The campaign encourages all drivers to bring back the courtesy wave – a wave or a nod of the head, to acknowledge another driver’s courtesy and your appreciation of it.
The campaign has been produced in association with 7West Media, Channel 9, Southern Cross Austereo and JCDecaux.
The idea of a campaign focusing on promoting ‘respect’ between road users is in response to community feedback to the Road Safety Commission.
Double Demerits will be in force from Friday May 29 until Monday June 1 inclusive.
As stated by Police and Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts:
“Manners cost nothing but on the road they can save lives.
“We all share the roads and if we are to be safe on the roads we all have to get along.
“The easing of regional travel restrictions means there’ll be a lot more people travelling around the State’s roads this weekend.
“Please stick to the road rules, don’t drive tired or distracted and let’s all get home safe this holiday weekend.”
“And if someone does something nice for you while you’re driving, give them a wave of thanks.”
“Let’s hope that as a State, every driver, whether it be on a freeway, a highway or a byway, can practice just a little bit of old fashioned country courtesy.
