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When roads turn deadly

26 May, 2009 04:00 AM
WHILE the country roads winding through the Macedon Ranges have their charm, they also have their dangers, especially in winter.

Blinding fog, black ice, and even snow can cause serious risks on roads in wet weather, prompting local emergency volunteers to send reminders to the community.

"Always adjust to the road conditions," Gisborne CFA captain Tony Wade said.

"Visitors to the area are not familiar with our driving conditions, especially in the early morning and late nights."

More crashes happen in winter than any other time of the year, but there are measures drivers can take to reduce the risks. Senior Constable Brett Magragh, of the Gisborne traffic management unit, said people should drive below the speed limit in the wet weather.

"Slow down to be able to stop at a safe distance you can see to. If you can only see 50 metres in front of you, drive at 50kmh."

Senior Constable Magragh said black ice, known to appear on Black Forest and Mt Macedon roads, was a problem in the countryside.

"It's even worse than a wet road. A couple of years ago on the Old Calder [Freeway], between Woodend and Macedon, we had 11 cars come off the road and drivers still continued to drive at 90kmh."

SES deputy controller Di Dale said it was important for motorists to have simple checks of vehicle's tyres, headlights and windscreen wipers.

"Ensure your regular maintenance is up to date such as tyres because if you brake suddenly, that [poor condition of tyres] is a major contributor to road crashes.

"Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition to ensure good visibility."

While no one wants to feel the effects of a road crash, Ms Dale said volunteers within the SES unit quite often knew the victims involved.

Wet weather tips:

*Fill windscreen washers.

*Check tyres are in good condition.

*Ensure headlights are working.

*Keep a safe distance between vehicles.

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Take care: More crashes occur in winter than any other season. Gisborne CFA's Anton Neal, Di Dale from Gisborne SES, and Leading Senior Constable Peter Wall are advising drivers to respect the frequently difficult road conditions encountered in the shire at this time of year. Picture: Matthew Furneaux
Take care: More crashes occur in winter than any other season. Gisborne CFA's Anton Neal, Di Dale from Gisborne SES, and Leading Senior Constable Peter Wall are advising drivers to respect the frequently difficult road conditions encountered in the shire at this time of year. Picture: Matthew Furneaux

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