(Aus law & generally) According to the NSW Centre for Road Safety, the number of lives lost on the state’s roads so far this year is down on last year. Many crashes are caused by dangerous driving behaviour, such as driving under the influence and speeding, while others are due to contributing factors such as distraction and fatigue. There are a number of things you can do to keep the roads safer for yourself and others, and reduce your chances of being charged with a traffic offence, or getting a negligent driving conviction. Here are a few safety tips that all motorists should be aware of:
Driving in adverse weather
Summer is just around the corner, which can mean increased rain and even storms depending on which part of Australia you live in. It is important to be aware of the weather conditions, and how they can affect your driving ability. Rain can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, which makes it easier to lose control of your vehicle. If you are driving in wet weather, make sure you allow more time for your journey, keep a safe distance away from the car in front and slow down on slippery roads. It is also a good idea to turn on your headlights in wet weather so that other vehicles can see you more clearly.
Distracted driving
It is easy to get distracted when you are driving. According to the RTA, you are four times more likely to have an accident when you hold and use your phone while you are driving. As well as mobile phone distraction, it is also possible to be distracted by passengers, children, eating and drinking and trying to perform other activities while you are driving. If you need to use your mobile phone while driving it is better to pull over in a safe place to use it than try to drive and use it at the same time. Make sure passengers know not to distract you, and don’t eat or drink while you are behind the wheel.
Driving under the influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a major contributor to accidents and collisions. Make sure you are aware what the legal limit is for alcohol and don’t drive if you have taken any illicit drugs. It is also important to be aware of prescription medication and how that can affect your ability to drive. Some painkillers and other forms of medicine can impair your driving ability, and in some cases mixing even one drink with certain medication can have an adverse effect on your driving ability.
Driving while fatigued
Fatigue is a common cause of accidents, and one that can be avoided with the right precautions. If you are driving long distances, particularly at night, make sure you stop every couple of hours or more frequently if you feel like you are getting tired. Educating yourself on the signs of fatigue may help you recognise when you could be putting yourself at risk. If you notice that your eyes are getting heavy and you are drifting across lanes, it is time to stop driving.
Negligent driving is often preventable with awareness and common sense. By taking steps to be a safer driver, you can help reduce the risk of being in an accident or of having to deal with a negligent driving conviction, and keep the roads safer for everyone.
Bill Vasiliadis
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