The SA Police Easter long weekend road safety campaign will begin at midday tomorrow (18 April), with the crash risk on Thursday historically three times greater than normal.
"We know that a high percentage of crashes occur within the metropolitan area as people are leaving Adelaide for Easter Holidays," said Superintendent Bob Gray, the officer in charge of the SA Police Traffic Support Branch.
"Historically, the risk of a crash is three times greater on this day, so I am appealing for the public to take extra care, plan ahead and be patient.
"If you are planning on heading away after work tomorrow, think about the impact of fatigue on your driving, and remember that a stop at least every two hours for a 10 minute break is recommended.
"Fatigue can produce inattention, zoning out and day-dreaming which are all extremely hazardous while driving."
He said the combination of school holiday and the Easter long weekend makes this one of the most popular weekends of the year for holidaying and community activities.
"Each year vast numbers of people travel to regional areas before, during and after the Easter long weekend, increasing the number of drivers travelling in areas they may not normally frequent," he said.
He said this long weekend is the focus of a significant road safety campaign by SA Police – will all available officers on duty on the roads.
"While other people are enjoying a break with their friends and family, we will be hard at work," he said.
"That means we will be playing close attention to main arterial roads into and out of Adelaide as well as monitoring the five road safety factors we know contribute to fatal and serious injury crashes.
"Motorists need to belt up, obey the speed limit, concentrate on the road and driving environment, and make a choice not get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or illicit drugs."
Operation Safe Holidays Easter 2019 will be in effect from noon on Thursday (18 April) until 11.59pm Monday 22 April.
