During the summer school holidays, including the Christmas and new year period, many of us will be hitting the road to explore the South Coast and beyond. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a camping trip, or just a relaxing escape, it’s important to remember that road safety should be your top priority.
This time of year sees an increase in motorists, with more cars, caravans and boats taking to the roads. The influx of traffic, combined with the holiday rush, can create congestion. To ensure everyone arrives at their destination safely, it’s essential to be patient and share the road with other travellers.
Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
- put the phone away
- slow down and drive to the conditions
- avoid unsafe and unnecessary overtaking
- leave a safe distance with the vehicle in front
- allow extra time
- rest when tired
- do not drive if you are impaired in any way.
Towing safety
If you’re towing a caravan or campervan remember to conduct a thorough inspection.
Make sure your tow hitch, safety chains and lights are correctly attached and in working order. Also check your tyres, towing capacity and caravan weight. Remember to re-check everything during long trips.
More details on caravan safety is available on the road safety website. When travelling interstate it is best to check individual State or Territory regulations before you leave.
Secure your load properly
Travelling with a trailer? Use suitable straps, chains or nets to keep your load from moving. It must stay in place when traveling in higher speed limited zones such as the highway, as well as during braking, turning, and sudden stops.
Double demerits
Double demerits are in force in the ACT from Wednesday 24 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026. This includes offences detected by road safety cameras.
Impaired driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is dangerous and illegal.
ACT Policing have the power to immediately remove people who choose to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol from our roads by imposing immediate licence suspensions.
Every ACT Policing vehicle can enforce the road rules anywhere, anytime. So if you drink or take drugs and drive, you can stop it…or cop it.
