How does Australia’s road safety record compare with other countries in the world? A regular review of our performance compared to Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development countries shows we usually track the OECD average. But in some ways we could definitely do better. Read More
The recent lockdown saw a huge drop in traffic on Sydney’s streets. There were only 65 million journeys, 43% less than the same period in 2019. No doubt traffic will build up again after lockdown. If surveys are right, many people have neglected to maintain their cars. Further, could the lockdown affect people’s driving abilities? Read More
We hear a lot about being a safe driver but not much about being a courteous driver. Perhaps the word “courteous” sounds too old fashioned, something to do with knights and ladies. But courtesy in driving may well be underrated on our roads. Read More
Who do you think is responsible for road safety? Is it car and truck drivers, schools, employers, road repairers, local councils or governments? The answer is all of the above. The new National Road Safety Strategy 2021-30 says it’s time to make road safety everyone’s responsibility. Read More
While delayed response times, drowsiness, and general grogginess could sound like the end of a night out on the town, it could just as easily describe the symptoms for fatigue. When we aren’t well rested, our bodies and minds must bear the burden, which is similar to driving with alcohol in the blood.
As driving is an activity which requires us being alert and responsive, substances that could impair our judgement such as alcohol are restricted or prohibited, depending on a driver’s age and licence. However, research has come to suggest that a lack of sleep could have just as dramatic an effect on our ability to control a vehicle as alcohol.
Driver fatigue is one of the top three contributors to fatalities on NSW roads, according to Transport for NSW.
In addition, crashes caused by fatigue are twice as likely to be fatal than other accidents. Approximately three in 10 road crashes in Australia that result in death or serious trauma are a result of driver fatigue.
Not driving while fatigued may seem like a no-brainer, but the New South Wales government is still concerned about the number of people who are threatening safety on the state’s roads by driving whilst fatigued and drowsy. According to Transport for New South Wales, fatigue is one of the main causes of road fatality, with research suggesting it is just as dangerous as drink driving.
Road safety is an issue requiring constant focus. From time to time, the NSW government collaborates with the Police to reveal information highlighting what needs to be done to increase the safety of others.
This time this problem is the increasing number of accidents and fatalities involving drivers under the influence of illicit drugs. With the manufacture of drugs like methamphetamine, speed and ecstasy, the problem is becoming more widespread.