For the first time in the history of the initiative, three Mid-Western businesses will be taking part in the 'Free Cuppa for the Driver' scheme.

With driver fatigue one of the biggest killers on NSW roads, according to Transport NSW, Mudgee Corner Store, Perfectly Sorted on Lions Drive and Hargraves General Store have volunteered to participate.

Since the scheme began in 2010, over 25,000 free cuppas have been distributed across NSW, and during that time, fatigue-related crashes have fallen 19 per cent.

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For owners of the Mudgee Corner Store, Campbell and Anne Maclean, participating in the scheme is something they are doing as a way to give back to the community.

"It's a good scheme, we travel quite a bit and it's always nice if you can get a decent coffee. It's also about giving back to the community, to help keep our roads safe," Campbell said.

"To get one you just have to say that you're the driver and would like to participate and have a free coffee.

"Any coffee, any size, it doesn't matter to us. We're doing it for the community."

Mid-Western Regional Council Road Safety Officer, Samantha Cecchini, said poor concentration and feeling restless are some of the early signs of driver fatigue.

"Taking regular breaks from driving before you feel tired makes a big difference in your ability to drive and respond to hazards safely," she said.

"When you fall asleep behind the wheel you aren't able to react by breaking or steering to avoid hazards, which means the crash is more likely to be fatal.

"With a boom of holiday travellers expected across the country this year, an initiative that draws attention to the risks of driving tired and makes it easy to take a break is a welcome solution to all road users."

To locate participating businesses, head to www.freecuppa.com.au.

'Free Cuppa for a Driver' is an initiative of the Local Government Road Safety Program and Transport for NSW and runs each year from March 1 to May 31.

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