Drive safely or else

By Sarah Schwager
IN THE past three years, Casey has recorded the worst road toll in the state.
In 2005 there were 17 deaths on Casey roads and 13 in 2004, much higher than other municipalities.
Nine people have died on Casey roads this year, seven of those in the Cranbourne area and two in Doveton.
While the Casey-wide figure is considerably less than last year’s, police are hoping to curb the number of deadly collisions on local roads this Christmas.
Casey TMU Sergeant Pat McGavigan said police would be out in force this festive season, focusing on road safety and poor driver behaviour.
“Police will have a strong visible presence on Casey’s roads over the Christmas period,” Sgt McGavigan said.
“However we still need to work in partnership with the public to keep our roads safe.
“We ask drivers to accept responsibility for their actions and think before getting behind the wheel.
“Keep an eye on your speed, don’t drink and drive, drive to the conditions and always remember to wear a seat belt.”
Sgt McGavigan said while this year’s road figures were lower than previously, nine deaths were still nine too many.
He said failing to obey a red light, driver error, speed and failing to use head lights had contributed to some of this year’s deadly collisions and motorists needed to evaluate all aspects of their driving behaviour.
“Unsafe driving practices will not go unnoticed this Christmas as there will be a significant police presence focusing on those who decide to ignore the law and make our roads unsafe,” Sgt McGavigan said.
“While police will be targeting the entire municipality, particular attention will be paid to the Cranbourne response zone.”
Sgt McGavigan also warned that police would be using the new anti-hoon legislation to their full advantage and would not hesitate to seize vehicles if they detected any unruly driving behaviour. “We will be using every tool we have to target unsafe driver behaviour this Christmas.”