A second motorcycle collision in the Great Ocean Road region during recent days has prompted police to warn travellers to be aware of roadworks and to drive to the conditions.
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Warrnambool police highway patrol unit Senior Constable Tim Brosowski said that late last week a Melbourne man in his 20s suffered a leg fracture after his motorcycle collided with a truck and trailer in roadworks.
"There were two motorcyclists travelling together and one crashed into the back of a work vehicle in a 40km/h roadworks zone on the Port Campbell-Cobden Road," he said.
"The work vehicle was moving, but it's suspected the motorcyclists were not obeying the 40km/h speed limit and it was very dusty, significantly reducing visibility."
The young man was taken to the Warrnambool Base Hospital with a leg fracture.
On Saturday afternoon a 32-year-old motorcyclist lost control on the unsealed Moonlight Head Road, off the Great Ocean Road, near Wattle Hill.
He collided with a tree and rolled 10 metres down an embankment, requiring the State Emergency Service to launch an operation to rescue him.
He suffered shoulder and rib injuries and he was flown by air ambulance to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Senior Constable Brosowski said with the easing of coronavirus restrictions there was a lot more people, particularly from Melbourne, taking the opportunity to travel.
"We are seen a lot more people travelling, day trips, and there's also a large amount of road works going on," he said.
"We would ask all drivers to take extra care on the roads, as people have not been travelling much and for everyone to obey all roadwork speed zones."
Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Doug Fryer said during the warmer months people were more likely to be out and about on the roads visiting friends, travelling to holiday destinations and enjoying the better weather.
"This can include the towing of boats and caravans which may have been in storage or unused for some time," he said.
"Taking the time to plan, such trips and identifying the safest, rather than the shortest, routes can play a major role in staying safe on our roads.
"Driving on unfamiliar roads and in different driving conditions, as well as towing caravans or boats can be tiring and can change the way your car handles.
"Ensuring your car, caravan or trailer is in tip top condition is paramount.
"When driving long distances, it is extremely important to break your trip into smaller pieces by having regular breaks. "
The assistant commissioner recommended taking advantage of driver reviver sites.
"Stop and have a cuppa and a bit of a chat, and share the driving duties if you are able," Mr Fryer said.
"There are a number of things you can do to ensure that the summer road trips are safe and enjoyable."
Some of the tips are:
Before setting off on a long journey, have your car serviced and given a proper safety check up. Make sure the caravan and / or trailer are checked as well,;
- Map out your trip and allow plenty of time to get to your destination. Make sure you include plenty of rest stops - enjoy the scenery and any attractions along the way;
- Try to limit driving in busy areas to off peak periods;
- If possible, restrict your drive to mainly daylight hours and avoid driving at sunset or sunrise which are periods of high glare and poor visibility; and
- Never drink alcohol, not even small amounts, before or during a long trip.
The assistant commissioner said drivers should also take steps to ensure they were physically fit to drive.
He recommended drivers had their eyes tested at least once every two years and make sure their optometrist knews they drive.
The police chief said it was important for drivers to talk to their pharmacist or doctor about any effect medication may have on their ability to drive.
"By making sure you are physically fit to undertake a long summer trip and then planning out your journey you can ensure that you stay safe and complete your trip without incident," he said.
"Enjoy the great weather and everything Victoria (and Australia) has to offer.
"Have a safe summer and travel responsibly on the roads. The TAC has provided some useful checklists and tips for older drivers to help them stay safe on the roads," he said.
For further tips visit the TAC website - www.tac.vic.gov.au.
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