Media Release
Transit New Zealand
Dunedin Regional Office
Media release
22 May 2008
Winter roads need winter drivers, says Transit
With the winter
chill biting, Transit New
Transit regional
network manager Murray Clarke said winter conditions brought ice, snow, slippery
surfaces, poor light and difficult night time driving conditions' all things
that make driving over the coming months more challenging than at other times of
the year.
"Winter
roads need winter drivers. Safe driving in winter is about being aware,
taking care and adjusting your speed to reflect the conditions."
He also
encouraged motorists to plan their journeys, allow extra time, and check road
condition information before setting out. People should avoid unnecessary trips
during periods of high risk such as during the night or in the early morning.
"In winter,
weather conditions can change quickly, often without warning. Be prepared
for the unexpected by carrying warm clothes, sturdy footwear and chains that you
know how to fit."
Mr Clarke said
all roads required extra care in winter, not just those in shady or alpine areas
where people often expected slippery surfaces.
"Frost and
ice can occur anywhere. Just as weather conditions can change during a
trip, so too can road conditions."
Mr Clarke said
keeping state highways safe and open for all users is Transit's priority in
Otago and Southland during winter - but there was also a lot that people could
do to help ensure their own safety.
Transit's
top winter driving tips:
-
Check road condition information
-
Transit website www.transit.govt.nz - Highway Info / Current Conditions
-
Listen to your local radio station
-
Transit road information line 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 444 449)
-
Be aware, take care and adjust your speed to the conditions
-
Watch for ice, frost and slippery road surfaces ' particularly in the early morning and as temperatures drop at night
-
Avoid unnecessary night time and early morning trips
-
Carry chains and know how to fit them
-
Plan your journey and allow extra time
-
Be prepared for the unexpected ' carry warm clothes and sturdy footwear
MEDIA: For more information contact:
Murray Clarke
Network Operations Manager
Transit New Zealand
03 477 8527
or in his absence:
Bruce Richards
Regional Manager
Transit New Zealand
021
564 906
Visit us at www.transit.govt.nz.