NSW trucking association ATANSW and the Caravan and Camping Industry Association of NSW (CCIA NSW) have called for road users to share the space in roadside rest areas this holiday period.
“For the safety of holiday makers, truck drivers and all other motorists on our roads,
it is vitally important people use roadside rest stops for the purpose they are intended and do not set up a camp or hinder their appropriate use in any way,” CCIA NSW President, Theo Whitmont said today.
“Summer is a busy time on our roads, and there are always more people taking long trips and towing caravans, so having safe and available rest stops is an important part of holiday safety.
“We would urge all travellers to be respectful of the laws and use the roadside facilities responsibly.”
ATANSW Manager Jodie Broadbent said misuse of roadside rest areas could cause serious fatigue issues for heavy vehicle drivers.
“By law, heavy vehicle drivers must take rest breaks at certain times. But if the rest area they intended to stop at is filled with caravans and other vehicles, they can’t meet these legal obligations.
Holiday motorists should not use these parking bays for any period and definitely not be setting up camp with tables and chairs. Manoeuvring a large, heavy truck around campers and caravans who should not be there in the first place increases the risk of damage and puts extra pressure on the truck driver who would have been driving for hours.
“Your consideration will help to make sure that everyone is able to travel safety these holidays.”
COURTESY POINTS TO REMEMBER…
Whilst as drivers sharing the road we all have a moral obligation to rest when fatigued, from a legal perspective, this is a grey area for everyday commuters and travellers.
Not so for Truck Drivers…. For them, it is very clearly a legal requirement and impacts heavily on their ability to meet deadlines. Their fatigue laws cover work & rest hrs, Work diaries, fatigue management accreditation schemes & chain of responsibility.
So when you pull over to rest… always be mindful of where you are pulling over. Check the area, check the signage. Don’t be thoughtless and above all, respect the requirements of our Truck Drivers.
It is a two way street…. The country won’t run without the Truckies. The country also won’t run without the consumers either…. Be thoughtful ! Play nice !
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