Canterbury Police are gearing up for what is expected to be a busy weekend
on the roads. Labour Weekend, being the first public holiday of the spring, is traditionally the first opportunity for most families to get away after the colder months of winter.
Sergeant Steve Burgerhout of Canterbury Highway Patrol says that Police will be out in numbers to monitor driver behaviour.
"We'll be ensuring that traffic keeps moving, is safe, and that drivers are considerate."
Drivers are advised to watch their speed and their following distances, and to be aware of the dangers of fatigue. "Plan your trip so you are not driving to a tight deadline and give yourself time for breaks," said Sergeant Burgerhout.
Sergeant Burgerhout encouraged motorists to utilise driver reviver stops that have been planned around the district by local Road Safety Committees and Insurance Group IAG.
"Please have patience with other drivers, particularly those who are towing. These towing motorists have a lower speed limit which is often slower than the main stream of traffic."
"Slower drivers must watch behind and when they see a build up, pull over safely at the first available opportunity and let traffic through. This will reduce potential frustration and risk taking by drivers trying to overtake slower vehicles."
Sergeant Burgerhout also asked these slower motorists to monitor their speed on passing lanes to ensure that they do not inadvertently speed up as the road widens.