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Safe Driving Tips

Announcement posted by Beyond Bank Australia 21 Mar 2011

Safe driving is more than just about you. It’s about your family, your passengers and the people around you whether you know them or not. The consequences of an road accident can be life altering.

Tip #1- Don’t Speed
  • Speeding in Australia is a major problem and is a large contributing factor in road deaths. Speed limit signs are posted to help ensure all vehicles are driving at a safe speed for that area.
  • Remember the faster the speed the more time you need to stop and the less time you have to react to hazards.
  • If you are unsure of the road, slow down.

Tip #2- Think before you drink

  • Driving and alcohol don't mix. If you intend to drink, leave your car at home or nominate a non-drinker to drive.
  • Drugs are like alcohol. They can put you and other drivers at risk.Some prescription 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.

Tip #3- Mobile phones

  • Talking, sending or receiving text messages, playing games or taking photos on a hand held mobile phone while driving is not only illegal but downright dangerous. Pull over and park first.
  • If you’re allowed to use hands free unit, keep it short, don’t get emotional and end the call if its distracting you from driving.

Tip #4- Avoid fatigue

  • Don't drive if you are tired or feel stressed.
  • Avoid driving late at night, when you would normally be sleeping.
  • If you are going on a long trip, get a good night's sleep beforehand.
  • Fatigue effects your decision making and ability to control a vehicle so take regular breaks while driving and be aware of the symptoms (sore or tired eyes, discomfort, boredom or highway hypnosis).

Tip #5- Kids

  • Make sure they are belted in before you start the car.
  • Consider taking something along to keep the kids amused. Even short car trips can be boring.
  • If you do have to talk to them – consider stopping first particularly of you are travelling at speed.

Tip #6- Pampering Pets

  • Transport your pets in a suitable carrier or use a pet harness. Having them loose in the car is dangerous for them and for you.

Tip #7- Seatbelts and restraints

  • Make sure everyone understands they need to wear their seatbelt and how to fit them correctly. There should be no slack in the belt and no twists.
  • Use proper child restraints and consider having the professionally fitted.
  • If you have an older car, get your seatbelts checked. They’re not expensive to change.

Tip #8- Maintain, maintain

  • A properly serviced and maintained vehicle is a safe vehicle.
  • Before starting a road trip consider if you vehicle needs anything. Have you checked lights, tyres, brakes, tow bar and removed all the unnecessary loose items?

Tip #9- Towing

  • When you load your trailer/caravan, the weight should be even over the wheels/axle of the trailer. The tow 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.

Tip #10- Personal safety

  • Secure loose items, it's surprising what articles can be life threatening in an accident.
  • Put your valuables somewhere safe, even having your handbag or wallet on the seat next to your can be risky.
  • If you feel threatened ensure your doors are locked and the windows are up. Always park in a well-lit area and have your keys ready when you return to the vehicle.
  • Be aware of what is happening around you at all times.
  • Try to keep a mobile phone with you at all times for use in an emergency.

Tip #11- Young Drivers

  • Get those supervised hours up and do so in a variety of road conditions and at night. Statistically, the more practice you get as a learner, the less likely you are to have an accident.
  • Consider a defensive driving course, they can help you anticipate and react properly to hazards.