It’s set to be one of the busiest weeks of the year on some regional roads, prompting an RAA reminder to plan ahead and drive safely.

Traffic data analysed by RAA vehicle numbers at the Copper Coast Highway/Yorke Highway intersection – the portal to the Yorke Peninsula – were 87% higher in the week after Christmas last year compared to earlier in December.

Main South Road at Myponga – a key route to the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island – may also be busier this week, carrying about 44% more vehicles in the week after Christmas last year.

Drivers are being urged to remember the road safety basics if heading away this week – including resting at least every two hours, sharing the driving and allowing extra time for the journey where possible. 

RAA Senior Manager of Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain says the data highlighted the popularity of post-Christmas travel but also the need to plan ahead.

“After Christmas, we see a sharp increase in traffic on regional roads as people head away for holidays, often travelling longer distances than they do during the rest of the year,” he says.

“Unfortunately, the Christmas and New Year period also coincides with the highest number of serious crashes, and many of these are linked to the Fatal 5.

“Speed, fatigue, inattention, not wearing a seatbelt, driving under the influence and dangerous driving continue to be among the biggest causes of serious injuries and deaths on our roads.

“Allow extra travel time – particularly if you are driving on unfamiliar roads, take regular breaks and share the driving where possible.

“Planning ahead is one of the simplest ways drivers can reduce risk before leaving the driveway.”

Even small amounts of alcohol can slow reaction times and increase the risk of a crash, and Mr Mountain also urges drivers to make a plan to get home safely without drinking and driving.

“Planning ahead and arranging a sober ride could save your life and the lives of others,” he says.

“Alcohol impairs your reaction times and judgement, and even a short drive can be dangerous.”

RAA’s road trip advice

• Plan your route and rest stops
• Take regular breaks, sharing the driving where possible, and avoiding night driving can help combat distraction – one of the Fatal 5 causes of road trauma.
• Pack smart
• Load heavy items low and as far forward as possible in the boot. This reduces the risk of objects shifting suddenly if you need to brake hard or swerve.
• Check your fluid levels
• Make sure your engine oil, coolant and windscreen washer fluid are topped up. Running out of oil or coolant can cause your engine to overheat and lead to costly repairs, while a clear windscreen is essential for safe driving, especially on country roads.
• Inspect your tyres
• Tyres should have at least 1.6mm of tread across the entire width. Worn tyres increase stopping distances, which can be particularly dangerous on high-speed regional roads or when the roads are wet or slippery.
• Test your lights and battery
• Check that headlights, brake lights and indicators (including on trailers or caravans) are all working properly. If your battery is older than 3–5 years or showing signs of weakness, such as slow starts or dim lights, consider replacing it before you leave. Packing jumper leads is also a smart precaution.