According to reports, more than 90% of Australian households currently have a car. In fact, there are more than 20 million registered vehicles on our roads. Unfortunately, thousands are impacted each year by transport-related industries.
- 1,138 road deaths in Australia over the last 14 months
- 2021 saw a total of 1,133 road fatalities
- There were 559 vehicle driver deaths, an increase from 545 the previous year
- Speeding still remains the top cause of accidents, followed by distracted and fatigued driving
- Young men are more likely to be involved in a crash
- Road accidents are higher on weekdays
Speeding, distraction and fatigue are the 3 issues that contribute to car accidents.
DID YOU KNOW :
20% of Australians admit to driving tired at least once a week. Fatigued driving is caused by a few factors, including lack of quality sleep, extended periods of driving and/or overworked schedules!
Avoid common road accidents and use these tips to stay safe:
- Do not forget the basics – obey the speed limit, drive the right speed for the weather and road conditions, stop at red lights, use your turn signals, yield the right away and wear seatbelts correctly
- Turn the engine off before using your phone or if tempted, switch over to aeroplane mode or use hands-free while driving
- Do not trust your tired self, turn to Uber or similar if you need a lift and feel fatigued
- Stay alert and keep calm behind the wheel
- Avoid common distractions such as eating/drinking, reading navigations, applying makeup, smoking/vaping etc
- Take frequent breaks on extended drives
- Leave three to four seconds distance between you and the car in front to reduce the risk of a rear-end collision
- Undergo formal driving training
Be a good example and for those with young male drivers in their care, be extra vigilant with insights and safer driving tactics.
@MelbourneCollisions deliver 10,000 vehicles each year across 5 centres with 120 expert staff.
