Safe travels this Easter

The recently appointed CEO of the ATA, Chris Melham, has urged all motorists to drive with consideration and common sense this Easter.

"With the long Easter weekend and school holidays coming up, we all know there will be a lot of extra traffic on the road," he said.

"At this busy time, it's more important than ever for all road users to share the road safely."

Mr Melham has called upon motorists to exercise caution when driving in the vicinity of heavy vehicles.

"You can help by avoiding heavy vehicle blind spots, particularly the main ones directly behind the truck and close in by the left passenger door," he said.

"If your vehicle sits in these areas, the truck driver may not know that you are there.

"If you plan to overtake a heavy vehicle, wait until you have plenty of clear road ahead.

"Don't let frustration or deadlines turn you into an 'April fool' on the road this Easter. Leave plenty of time to get where you're going, show respect for your fellow road users, and take a break if you feel tired."

Mr Melham has also asked heavy vehicle drivers to be patient, given the usual spike in traffic volumes and congestion over any holiday period.

"Easter traffic delays can be legendary," he said.

"Make sure you factor them into your schedule so you don't need to make up time in heavy holiday traffic.

"Keep in mind that a lot of holiday motorists are driving for longer hours than usual, or towing the boat or caravan for their once-a-year trip. These drivers may be unfamiliar with their route or load, so give them plenty of space to manoeuvre."

Mr Melham has also reminded motorists to leave room for heavy vehicles at roadside rest areas and to leave plenty of room when driving near trucks and buses.

Meanwhile, police around the country are reminding drivers that they'll have a heightened presence on our roads over the holiday period, with all jurisdictions employing extra patrols to monitor holiday traffic.

Double demerit points will also apply for road traffic infringements in New South Wales, ACT, and Western Australia over the Easter period.