Easter and school holidays are here this weekend and RACV is asking Victorians to consider some simple tips to get to their destination safely.

RACV General Manager Automotive Services Jackie Pedersen urged Victorians to exercise caution when travelling on the roads this weekend.

“The Easter break is always a great opportunity for a road trip but there are some simple tips you can follow to help keep you and others safe, such as planning ahead before travelling on unfamiliar routes or breaking up your trip with stops along the way,” Ms Pedersen said.

“RACV is also running our My Melbourne Road campaign calling for feedback to help make roads safer, so when you’re travelling this weekend in greater Melbourne keep an eye out for things that could be improved – like speed limits, potholes or dangerous intersections.” The survey is available at www.racv.com.au/mymelbourneroad.

RACV’s top 5 tips to stay safe on the road:

  1. Don’t get stuck roadside: Ensure your car is up to date with its service requirements and roadside assistance.
  2. Don’t rush. Enjoy your trip. Break up your road trip with planned stops along the way.
  3. Pack your survival car kit. This should include wet wipes, toilet paper, jumpers or coats, bathers and towels, a torch, cash, socks, a first aid kit, extra water, jumper leads, a phone charger, and a backup paper map. (Easter eggs are optional.)
  4. If you see something, say something: Let us know about Melbourne roads that could be made safer via www.racv.com.au/mymelbourneroad.
  5. Save time and money: Download the free arevo app from Google Play or the Apple Store to help plan your route and use the Fuel Finder feature, which can save users up to 12 cents for each litre of fuel.

Road users are also reminded that new laws have come into effect that clarify the use of portable devices when driving a vehicle or riding another form of transport such as a motorbike, bicycle, e-scooter or even rollerblades. Heavy penalties apply.

The principles underpinning the rules remain the same: drivers are not allowed to use unmounted or wearable devices while driving or riding. You can only use voice controls to initiate, accept or reject audio calls, play or stream audio materials, or adjust volume levels. You can use a mobile phone or other device to pay at a drive-through.

Mobile device and seat belt cameras are currently being introduced in Victoria. The cameras will capture drivers and riders who are holding mobile phones or other devices, as well as drivers and passengers who are not wearing seatbelts, or not wearing them properly.

For further information about use of portable devices, visit the RACV Road Safety site.