"Manners cost nothing but on the road they can save lives. We all share the roads and if we are to be safe on the roads we all have to get along,'' said Mrs Roberts.
"The easing of regional travel restrictions means there'll be a lot more people travelling around the State's roads this weekend. Please stick to the road rules, don't drive tired or distracted and let's all get home safe this holiday weekend. And if someone does something nice for you while you're driving, give them a wave of thanks," she said.
Road Safety Commissioner Adrian Warner said courteous driving not only facilitated safe driving, it “put a smile on peoples’ faces”.
“I’ve heard personal stories of how aggressive behaviour on the roads can be unsettling for the person on the receiving end, and that the consequences of that behaviour can be long lasting.
“There is not a better time to remind road users that kindness, courtesy and safety will be paramount to sharing the roads safely.
“Community attitude research conducted for the Road Safety Commission last year found that 63% of respondents admitted to getting annoyed or frustrated with other road users, so I encourage everyone in WA to get behind this campaign as courtesy plays a vital role in reducing the risk of crashes on our roads.
“It is a message that has extra importance this long weekend as thousands of Western Australians are expected to take to the state's roads following the relaxation of travel restrictions.
“If you are planning to take advantage of the long weekend with a short break somewhere in our great state, please get plenty of rest before you travel, don’t drive tired, share the driving and take a break at least every two hours. Maybe even get out of the car and take in the magnificent scenery WA has to offer.
“And for those people travelling up north, remember that travel restrictions to the Kimberley, East Pilbara and Ngaanyatjarraku remain in place this weekend, so plan your travel.”
The campaign, under the umbrella 'Kindness Travels', is a joint initiative between the Road Safety Commission and multiple media outlets, including Seven West Media (publisher of The West Australian newspaper), the Nine Network, GWN and Southern Cross Austereo.
A multi-media approach, including print, digital, television, radio and out-of-home advertising, will promote the message of courtesy.
Each media outlet has put their own 'spin' on the concept; Seven West Media is promoting the 'West Aussie Wave' and has engaged a host of media personalities in its campaign material.
The Nine Network is using the slogan 'Ride the Wave'.
Advertising agency JC Decaux has developed signage and 'wraps' for buses promoting 'Kindness That Travels' while the radio spots will urge listeners on the road to 'throw a hand up to say thanks'.
The campaign will run for 14 weeks until late August.
