DGT campaign to reduce Easter road deaths
Traffic chief recommends that motorists consult their website before setting out
A TOTAL of 14.6 million car journeys are due to take place over the Easter holidays in Spain, according to the DGT national traffic department.
Their prediction covers the period from April 8 to April 18, ending at midnight on Monday.
State news agency EFE reported that the campaign started with heavy traffic last Friday and Saturday at the exits from the big cities, with jams on the A-3 motorway linking Madrid with Valencia.
The DGT noted that 3.7 million journeys were expected last weekend, with the lion’s share of the traffic due from Wednesday (April 13) until Monday night.
DGT director Pere Navarro said statistics and predictions from experts had revealed that 36 people were likely to lose their lives in road traffic accidents over the Easter period.
“You never think that it will be you or a member of your family,” he said.
“But if we follow the traffic regulations then we can prove this Big Data wrong.”
He noted that motorists and their passengers are more at risk when there is a heavy volume of traffic on the roads.
Sr Navarro explained that they are activating all the resources they have to try to ensure drivers keep to the speed limit, do not get distracted and do not drive under the influence of drink or drugs. These include 13 DGT helicopters which are fitted with cameras that measure speed and read number plates, ensuring that speeding motorists will be sent a fine in the post.
They also have 39 drones which will be in operation to help traffic headquarters resolve congestion problems and check on drivers who may be committing infractions.
Guardia Civil traffic police will also be out in force, dealing with accidents and any incidents which might arise. The Guardia Civil will also be combining with local police forces to carry out alcohol and drug tests on drivers.
The DGT recommends that motorists consult their website for more information (www.dgt.es/ini cio), where they can find the latest on traffic incidents under the ‘estado del tráfico’ section.