Drive fresh - that’s the message from Northland Police.?
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With Road Safety Week starting Monday, May 16, Police are reminding motorists to avoid driving if you are feeling fatigued or exhausted.
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Driver fatigue is believed to have played a part in up to 40 percent of the fatal crashes in the region during 2015, and suspected in at least three of the fatal crashes in 2016.?
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“These deaths may have been avoided if the drivers ensured they had a good sleep before driving," says Northland District Road Policing Manager, Inspector Wayne Ewers.
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“Fatigued drivers’ reactions are much slower, their ability to concentrate is reduced and it takes longer to interpret and understand the traffic situation.
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“This can have devastating results especially for our loved ones left to deal with the loss. Fatigued people often forget the obvious like clicking your seatbelt in,” says Mr Ewers.
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“A number of people would be alive today if they had taken a little extra time to sleep before driving.”
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Mr Ewers says shift workers are a high risk group for fatigued driving. They are six times more likely to die in crashes than other road users.?
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“Our prevention advice is if you finish your shift and you’re seriously tired, just have a quick nap before you drive home. Fifteen minutes’ sleep could save your life.
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“Some people think other remedies, like rolling the window down or increasing the radio volume, will work, but those just mask the tiredness.”
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Mr Ewers says other tips for avoiding fatigue include having a good night’s sleep if driving the next day, sharing the driving when possible, making sure you’re fully awake before driving, and taking plenty of breaks if driving long distances.
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For more tips and information on avoiding driver fatigue visit
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Police encourage drivers to call 555 if you observe driver behaviour that is inappropriate as vehicles weaving within lanes and speed variations can be signs of driver fatigue.
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Ends
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Kim Chambers 021 911 967/百春链
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