The initiative sprang from the Wellington Council Traffic Committee, which works both independently and in conjunction with community members who have concerns about road and traffic issues.

Wellington Council road safety officer Kristine Long said the project would target local residents, who represent 27 per cent of all speed-related crashes in the area between 2002 and 2006.

The tray mats also offer advice on how to avoid fatigue-related crashes, which are another problem area for the traffic committee and the Roads and Traffic Authority.

“Basically what we are trying to do is target locals to be more aware of the most common times, places and reasons that road accidents occur,” Ms Long said.

“For instance, more crashes occur in the Wellington area on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

“A key feature of this plan is placing speed counters in problem areas to document car types, speed and the time they pass through.

“We then look at that data and continue with other initiatives such as placing large, variable signs in those areas to discourage people from speeding.”

To encourage people to look more carefully at their tray mat, the committee is offering $300 worth of fuel as an added incentive.

“The tray mat has three quiz questions on the reverse side,” Ms Long said.

“People can fill them in, and most of the answers can be found on the tray mat, place them in a box at the counter to go into the draw for the fuel.

“The quiz will help us evaluate local knowledge on the issue and help us to develop strategies.”

Next on the agenda for the committee is a campaign focusing on senior road users, particularly those who use mobility scooters.

“There has been overwhelming community feedback that this particular road user group are considered very vulnerable,” Ms Long said.

“Wellington Council would like to help them update on road rules and formulate strategies to keep them safe.