Springing into good driving habits

Spring is a favourite season for many of us, despite its challenges due to changeable weather.

Unpredictable weather can dampen the best-planned social gathering or outing, and changeability must also be factored in when you get behind the wheel.

Driving conditions can be challenging due to vegetation growth reducing visibility, or stock grazing the road reserves.

Hurunui District Council’s Road Safety Coordinator Emma Feathery encourages drivers and riders to carefully consider actions and timings around common-practice driving habits, like following distances and adhering to speed limits.

She said all road users are encouraged to plan ahead when the roads are full of towing vehicles, especially around long weekends like the upcoming Canterbury Anniversary weekend in mid-November.

“Allow for extra travel time and plan your breaks, because a refreshed driver is a safe driver.”

Top Tips for spring Driving:

• Be seen, be safe – with changeable light levels, you are safer to travel with your driving lights (not just the park lights) on, night AND day.
• Slow down for unclear condition.
• Allow enough travel time to exercise patience and consideration with other road users, especially towing vehicles.
• Drive phone-free.
• Always wear seat belt and ensure all passengers in your vehicle are appropriately restrained.

“Drive safe Hurunui.”