Road Safety

Novice Drivers – Be aware of the risks

• The main reasons P plate drivers crash are because of overconfidence and inexperience (Senserrick and Haworth, 2005).
• Novice drivers are more likely to be involved in a crash at night due to their inexperience and reduced visibility.
• Novice drivers may experience increased fatigue and distraction as they are in a holiday situation.
• Driving on unfamiliar roads reduces the ability to predict hazards.

Novice Drivers – Minimise the risks

• Ensure the car’s roadworthiness before leaving.
• Know insurance and roadside assist details.
• Drive in daylight hours and take regular breaks or share the driving.
• Limit the number of passengers - as the number of peer passengers increases, so does the risk of crashing (Senserrick and Haworth, 2005).
• Put mobiles phones in the boot or have them switched to ‘do not disturb while driving’ mode.
• Turn the music volume down so the driver can concentrate on safe driving.

Safe driving behaviours

• Ensure you and your passengers are wearing a seatbelt.
• Keep a minimum of a two second gap from the vehicle in front.
• Drive to the conditions.
• Be patient and calm.
• Drive in harmony with heavy vehicles.
• Look out for wildlife.

Passenger safety

• Wear your seatbelt.
• Minimise distractions for the driver.
• Only accept rides from people you know.
• Don’t get in the car with a driver who has been drinking or taking drugs.

Pedestrian Safety

• Use footpaths. If none, walk on the far right so you can see and react to oncoming traffic.
• Move off the road until the vehicle passes.
• Avoid texting while walking.
• Walk under streetlights.
• Look out for each other and stay together.

References

Senserrick, T and Haworth, N. (2005) Review of literature regarding national and international young driver training, licencing and regulatory systems.  Report to Western Australia Road Safety Council Commissioned by the WA Office of Road Safety.  Monash University Accident Research Centre.