Road safety
Road safety continues to be one of Australia's most serious public health issues. It affects everyone, whether you drive, cycle or walk.
The following tips will help you stay safe on the roads.
Driving
- Slow down
- Drive to the conditions
- Plan ahead to ensure you don't drink and drive
- Stop every 2 hours to avoid fatigue.
- Stay focused on the road—it is easy to get distracted by things in the car
- Follow the road rules at all times
- Buckle up
- Safely restrain kids and keep them busy on the drive
- Keep your car well maintained
Read more about safe driving.
Cycling
- Be predictable and signal your intentions
- Be assertive and aware
- Wear an Australian-Standards-approved helmet, correctly fitted and fastened
- Check your brakes regularly to make sure they work
- Have a bell, horn or similar warning device
- Have lights (front and back) that are visible for 200m when cycling at night.
Read more about safe cycling.
Walking
- Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact if possible
- Never cross a road without first scanning for oncoming traffic
- Walk on the side of the road that faces oncoming traffic so you can see what is coming
- Walk on footpaths when you can
- Use designated crossings: pedestrian crossings, traffic signals or pedestrian refuges
- Wear reflective gear when walking at night.
Read more about road safety when walking.
Check road conditions
Before taking to the roads, check traffic cameras and road conditions:
Keep the roads safe
Contact the Department of Transport and Main Roads to report a fault or suggest road safety improvements.
