Remember key messages for a safe summer road trip, says charity

Brake, the road safety charity, is calling on New Zealand drivers to give the road their full attention and avoid taking risks if heading away over the holiday period.

With 334 people killed already this year, including 23 so far this month, and many people heading away for Christmas and the school holidays, Brake is urging drivers to do everything they can to keep themselves and other road users safe by remembering some key road safety messages.

The charity is urging drivers to make sure their vehicle is fit for the road before setting off, by checking tyre pressure and tread depth, oil and water levels, windscreen wipers, and making sure that lights and indicators are working.

The start of the Christmas period means more people on the road in many parts of the country. Brake is urging drivers to plan their journey in advance to ensure they have plenty of time to reach their destination so they don't feel rushed and can take breaks every two hours on long journeys.

Brake is also reminding drivers of the other key road safety messages of the Brake Pledge:

Slow: Drive within speed limits, drive at 30km/h or lower in communities, and slow down on rural roads too. Avoid overtaking unless you're sure it's safe.
Sober: If driving, don't drink any alcohol, or take any illegal drugs or medication that could affect driving.
Sharp: Drive alert - not tired, ill or stressed. Plan your journey so you have plenty of time, and take breaks every two hours on long journeys. Have an eye test at least every two years and wear glasses or contact lenses if needed.
Silent: Phone off or on message service. Minimise other distractions such as sat nav/GPS and tuning the radio as much as possible.
Secure: Always belt up and insist that everyone else in the vehicle does the same and adjusts head restraints. If travelling with children, ensure you have correctly fitted, appropriate child restraints.
Sustainable: Only drive when you have to.

Read more about the Brake Pledge.

Caroline Perry, Brake's New Zealand director said: "Already this year more than 300 families have been given the devastating news that a loved one won't be coming home. This time of year can be particularly risky because lots of us drive long distances with our families, risking fatigue, distractions and speeding in order to get to our destination. But the consequence could be that you don't get there at all. We want everyone to get to their destination safely and enjoy the holiday period, so slow down, keep your attention on the road and take regular breaks."