Spend this Easter with your loved ones, not us

Already this year The Alfred Emergency and Trauma Centre has seen a 52 per cent increase in the number of pedestrians and cyclists admitted.

Road trauma admissions have also risen, with 364 recorded during the first three months of the year - a worrying trend Alfred Health Director of Trauma, Professor Mark Fitzgerald said he hopes doesn’t continue this Easter.

“Road trauma numbers have been on the rise this year – the Labour Day long weekend in particular brought about an unfortunately huge number of seriously injured people to The Alfred,” he said.

“With people now back out and about and on the roads, we want to remind people to be extra vigilant – we want you to spend Easter with your loved ones, not in our unit.

“It’s a message that comes out this time every year, but a momentary lapse in concentration can change lives forever.”

Professor Fitzgerald urged drivers, riders, cyclists and pedestrians to take extra caution this long weekend.

“Sticking to the speed limits, wearing a seatbelt and remaining aware of your surroundings can be the difference between life and death,” he said.

“Don’t drink alcohol and drive or ride.  If you’re going away, remember to take breaks during long drives to avoid fatigue. And please have a safe break – you have made it through a long year.”