KEY POINTS:
Turning off mobile phones is one action motorists can take to keep themselves and their passengers alive and well this Easter, the Automobile Association (AA) says.
Spokesman Simon Lambourne said motorists could also help themselves by driving to the conditions, being patient and remembering more than 100 people had already died on the roads this year.
"Most New Zealanders will make the most of the Easter long weekend and go for a drive - either on holiday or to see family and friends," Mr Lambourne said.
"While there are many things that motorists can do to keep themselves safe on the roads, remembering these four simple things will make driving much safer this Easter."
He reminded motorists that driving to the speed limit could be too fast in some conditions, such as during sunstrike or if it was raining.
"It is a sad but true fact that at least another 200 people are likely to be killed on our roads in 2008. Do you really want to become one of them?" Mr Lambourne said.
Six people died on New Zealand roads during last year's Easter period and five the year before.
Police National road safety adviser Superintendent Paula Rose said it was also worth remembering that many people were injured in crashes; last year 202 were injured over Easter, 41 of them seriously.
She urged people to use commonsense on the roads - don't drink, avoid distractions, take breaks "and keep to the right side of the road", she told NZPA.
"We want people to have a safe and healthy Easter."
The official holiday period starts at 4pm today and runs until 6am on Tuesday.
- NZPA
