Most of us have special memories of road trip, either as youngsters with our family or as young adults enjoying the freedom of a driving holiday. With so many scenic roads around the country, travelling by car continues to be a favourite way for Australians to travel.
But with over 1,000 Australians dying each year on the roads, it’s important to drive safely.
Here are some driving tips to ensure you arrive at your destination safely.
1. Stick to the speed limit
Speeding is a major contributing factor in road deaths. Speed limit signs are posted to help ensure all vehicles are driving at a safe speed for that area.
The faster the speed the more time you need to stop and the less time you have to react to road hazards.
Slow down on unfamiliar roads
2. Stay alert
Tiredness effects your decision making and ability to control a vehicle. Be aware of the symptoms of fatigue (sore or tired eyes, discomfort, boredom or highway hypnosis) and pull over to revive before continuing your journey.
Having a good sleep is the only way to prevent becoming fatigued or cure fatigue once you have it. Avoid driving if you feel drowsy or tired. Break up long car trips by stopping for a coffee or let the kids stretch their legs at a playground. Consider staying overnight half-way to your destination.
If you are going on a long trip, get a good night's sleep beforehand.
3. Stay sober
Just one drink can put you over the limit, so if you intend to drink, stay put for the night or have a non-drinker drive.
Some medications can also affect your driving. Read the instructions on the medication packaging or consult your doctor or pharmacist to find out if the drugs you are taking will impact your driving ability.
4. Never drive and text
In Australia it is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless you use a hands free in-car kit or portable hands free device.
Never read or send test messages, take notes, or look up phone numbers - always keep both eyes on the road.
5. Use safe restraints
Make sure all children and pets are restrained in a suitable car seat or harness and remain restrained for the entire duration of the journey
6. Maintain your vehicle
Make sure your car is properly serviced and maintained.
Before leaving on a long journey, check lights, tyres, brakes, tow bar and remove all the unnecessary loose items.
7. Tow safely
If you are towing a trailer or caravan, the weight should be even over the wheels/axle of the trailer. The towed vehicle should be level when everything is hooked up and loaded.
It's very important to check tyre pressures and if you’re not sure speak to a tyre expert.
8. Mind the gap
You should keep a two-second gap from the vehicle ahead, no matter what speed you are travelling. When it is raining, a foggy night, or any combination of these, the gap should be doubled to four seconds.
When you stop behind another vehicle in a line of traffic, always ensure you are able to clearly see the bottom of the vehicle's rear tyres.
9. Be a courteous driver
• Allow other drivers to merge or change lanes easily.
• Only use your horn as a warning sound and do not use it out of frustration.
• Always try to stay relaxed and concentrate on your own driving and safety rather than the behaviour of others.
• Don't gesture to other drivers or engage in arguments.
• Be forgiving of other drivers’ mistakes.
• Don't take your personal frustration out on the road.
• Be aware of the needs of other drivers, and all other road users like pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and heavy vehicles.
10. Look after yourself
• While in your car, keep the doors locked at all times.
• If you find yourself being followed while driving, try to keep calm and maintain your driving skills. Go to the nearest police station, petrol station or well-lit convenience store. Only leave your car when you feel the threat has passed. Report the incident to the police.
• Try to carry pen and paper, a torch, and emergency numbers with you at all times.
• If you break down, try to leave the car in a safe, well-lit spot. Put your bonnet up and turn on your hazard lights. If you have to call for assistance, ensure the car is secure and go to the nearest phone.
A special message from Suncorp
Fatality Free Friday - May 27, 2011
Road safety is a complex issue but we believe that if drivers consciously think about road safety and safe driving for just one Friday in the year, that day's toll - statistically about 5.3* deaths - could be reduced to zero.
That's our aim. Not a single road death in Australia for just one day. Just one Fatality Free Friday.
