Frenetic Friday causing crashes on roads
23/01/2009
SGIO is urging WA drivers, particularly those heading away for the long weekend, to exercise caution after it was revealed Friday is the worst day of the week for car crashes.
The WA insurer said car crashes spike by around 18 per cent on Fridays, with the peak hour times of 8am to 9am and 3pm to 5pm being the worst times.
Sunday is easily the least likely day of the week to have a collision, with the volume dropping by 32 per cent compared to the weekly average. 11am to 12pm was the worst time for crashes on the weekend.
SGIO State Manager Colin Tierney said the research was a timely reminder to drive safe on WA roads as we approach the Australia Day long weekend.
“Friday always tends to be busier on our roads with work and school finishing and then some motorists rushing off for their weekend break” explained Mr Tierney. “And no doubt tonight, with many expecting to take advantage of the long weekend, there will be even more motorists on the road.”
“This increased traffic volume means we could all be a little more cautious, be aware of traffic and weather conditions, and above all, stay calm.”
“It’s better to be patient and focus your attention on safe driving rather than end your week and add to your stress with a crash” he added.
In the event of a collision, SGIO recommends that motorists:
• Stop immediately and give assistance to anyone who is injured
• Call an ambulance if required
• Call the police if a person has been injured, the other party fails to stop and/or supply details, a vehicle requires towing, a driver appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol or there is damage to property
• Exchange details including date, time and location, name and residential address of the person responsible, license/registration details, make/model of the cars involved and insurance details
• Collect the details of any witnesses and police involved
• Contact their insurance company