See the New Year in safely, says TAC

23 Dec 2015

The Transport Accident Commission is calling on Victorians to make an early resolution to be safe on the roads in the lead-up to New Year's Eve and beyond.

As the state prepares for the biggest party of the year, the TAC wants road users to make a commitment to themselves and their loved ones to ensure their actions on the road don't prevent a safe and prosperous 2016.

TAC acting chief executive Tony Dudley said 2016 offered Victorians an opportunity to play their part in the state's Towards Zero mission – working towards a future where no person is killed or seriously injured on the roads.

"For most of us, this time of year is all about hoping the New Year brings good things for family and friends, and maybe ridding yourself of a few unhealthy habits," Mr Dudley said.

"While you're making a promise to yourself to go to the gym more or tone down some of your social habits, it makes sense to look at your driving habits and add them to your list of resolutions."

The TAC is urging people to make their resolution public online with a commitment on social media. The Facebook and Twitter push suggests New Year's resolutions such as slowing down, never using a phone while driving and never drinking if planning to drive.

"Planning a safe way home is particularly important at this time of year because people's social calendars are pretty full and getting a taxi or public transport can be a challenge," Mr Dudley said.

"We know this can be the case after a night out, not just in Melbourne and regional cities, but also smaller country towns that have limited public transport."

Drink-driving remains one of the biggest killers on the roads and, with a ramped up police presence focussing on drink-driving, Mr Dudley said revellers should make the decision to either drink or drive, not both.

"If you're going to be drinking, leave the keys at home and ask family or a friend to give you a lift," Mr Dudley said.

"It's very difficult to judge your BAC, which can depend on many different factors, so the best plan you can have is to take the stress out of your night by not driving after you've been drinking."

The dangers of drink-driving aren't just limited to night time – often, for people who've had a lot to drink, their BAC will remain more than .05 until the following morning or afternoon.

To make your New Year's resolution on social media, include the hashtag #towardszero on Facebook and Twitter.

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