Take the road safety pledge to Drive So Others Survive this National Road Safety Week, 14 to 21 May.
"The pledge is a great way to stop and think about the way we drive and how our actions impact others on the road," said MidCoast Council's Road Safety Officer, Chris Dimarco.
While the online pledge is anonymous, it can be very powerful. It's a personal commitment to yourself to drive as if your loved ones are driving ahead of you on the road.
"This year, we're especially interested in helping young people take the pledge, so we'll be at the Old Bar Rugby League field on Saturday 20 May from 12 noon," said Chris.
"The Old Bar Pirates and Forster Tuncurry Hawks teams will be taking the pledge, and I'd encourage anyone attending the footy to come over and see us in the Towards Zero gazebo."
The online pledge is available to everyone at https://roadsafetyweek.com.au/
"You can take the pledge anywhere," added Chris.
"At a café with friends, around the dinner table at home, with your mates at work."
"Almost 55,000 people across Australia have taken the pledge so far."
The pledge reminds us to remove all distractions including mobile phones, and avoid putting other people at risk by speeding or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Every day of National Road Safety Week has a different theme, focussing on different aspects of road safety.
Sunday 14 May: Remember the 1,200.
Monday 15 May: Your Road Safety Pledge.
Tuesday 16 May: Road Safety for Young People.
Wednesday 17 May: Slow Down and Give Them Space.
Thursday 18 May: How Safe is My Ride?
Friday 19 May: Let's All Get Home Safe.
Saturday 20 May: Share the Path.
Sunday 21 May: Take Care on Regional Roads.
Every year approximately 1,200 people are killed and over 40,000 people are seriously injured while driving on roads in Australia.
"By taking the pledge we can all work towards zero, so nobody has to lose a loved one on the road or live with a serious injury," said Chris.
National Road Safety Week is an annual initiative from the Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group and supported by Transport for NSW and MidCoast Council.
