AAMI teams with Spotify to tackle drowsy Easter drivers

Suncorp brand AAMI has teamed with streaming service Spotify in a new Easter driver safety campaign pitched at young drivers, offering a Rest Towns playlist series that prompts drivers to stop every two hours during long road trips.

Twenty-five people died on Australian roads over the 2021 Easter holiday period, the worst in a decade.

The playlist, available on Spotify until April 30, is designed to help keep drivers alert by identifying a selection of “Rest Towns” located enroute. On approach, drivers hear an audio message prompting them to pull over, rest and visit a local attraction.

The series is curated to be played during popular driving routes – Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, Melbourne to Sydney, Brisbane to Airlie Beach, Sydney to Byron Bay and Adelaide to Mount Gambier. Drivers can plan ahead with AAMI’s rest stop recommendations.

AAMI says just one in five young drivers take regular breaks on a long trip, while one in 10 have had a microsleep behind the wheel, or drifted into oncoming traffic.

AAMI EM Motor Claims Kahl Dwight says the innovative approach to tackling driver fatigue follows new research showing under 25s are the worst offenders, and border restriction easing means many young drivers may be embarking on their first road trip.

“We’re particularly targeting younger drivers this Easter through a personalised playlist on Spotify. This also helps them to discover some of Australia’s hidden gems such as an iconic landmark, a secluded beach, or a picturesque town selling the perfect pie,” Mr Dwight said.

“We want it to be fun while also encouraging younger drivers to adopt stopping regularly.”

Australian Road Safety Foundation CEO Russell White recommends sharing driving with other passengers, patience, and not driving at times when the holiday goer would normally be sleeping.

“Young drivers will have reduced driving skills due to spending less time behind the wheel during the pandemic, which puts them at heightened risk for a crash,” he said. “Don’t push the limits, stop and take a break. Pressing on to get somewhere or overdoing things just isn’t worth the risk.”

Download the playlists here.