Thousands of travellers are expected to pull into "driver reviver" rest stops on some of the country's main routes this Labour Weekend, including the one at the weigh station opposite Ohakea air base on SH3.
The driver reviver stops are being promoted by State insurance company to combat driver fatigue and the Ohakea stop will be manned from 10am-6pm next Monday.
Company staff will be enticing motorists to take a break with free coffee, a sausage sizzle, fruit, bottled water, kids' activities and Portaloos. Tired drivers can even take a nap.
Official figures for 2012 show that 51 people died in crashes where fatigue was identified as a factor, 139 suffered serious injuries, and another 555 suffered minor injuries. The total social cost of crashes involving fatigue last year was an estimated $291 million.
To help avoid fatigue, drivers should get a good night's sleep before driving. They should also plan their journey to include rest breaks and share the driving when possible. Experts also say drivers should not be at the wheel during the hours when they would normally be sleeping or napping. Snacking on light, fresh foods is helpful but it is best to avoid rich or sugary foods and don't drink alcohol.