MFR breakfast DJ Jodie McCluskey backs ‘powerful’ A9 driver fatigue campaign
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Moray Firth Radio (MFR) breakfast DJ Jodie McCluskey is backing a campaign by the Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland, reminding drivers about the dangers of driver fatigue.
The campaign was not always well received with A9 dualling campaigner Laura Hansler accusing Transport Scotland of “victim blaming” when it came to casualties on the road – coming just a week after the vow to dual the road by 2025 was ditched.
The campaign states fatigue is a contributory factor in as many as 25 per cent of all fatal and serious incidents on the A9 from Inverness to Perth and collisions which kill or seriously injure around 50 people every year in Scotland.
Many of the counter measures used by drivers to combat tiredness – like opening a window, turning up the radio or pinching themselves – have been shown to be ineffective.
Instead, the campaign urges drivers to take regular breaks, stop to rest and have a coffee, and plan ahead to avoid driving tired.
Ms McCluskey said: “As a breakfast presenter working early shifts, and a mum with two young children to boot, I’m used to waking up very early, so I try to plan ahead and get an early night to make sure I’m well-rested before my commute to work.
“It’s important to know the dangers of getting behind the wheel tired, and to remember it’s not enough to roll down your window or turn up the music if your eyes are feeling heavy. Make sure you stop for a rest, have a coffee, and try to plan ahead as much as you can.”
Transport minister Jenny Gilruth said: “Driver fatigue is a serious issue that causes too many serious and fatal road collisions each year.
“We’re reminding people to plan their journeys well in advance, ensure they are well-rested before setting out and take regular breaks. It’s simple, yet powerful, advice which can help save lives.”
