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Road Safety
Safe driving requires constant awareness. Fatigue, distractions and following distance are among the leading causes of crashes. Small habits make a big difference.
Key Rules
- Never drive while drowsy. If you feel tired, stop and rest. Fatigue affects reaction time as much as alcohol.
- Holding or touching a phone while driving is an offence everywhere in Australia. What learner and P drivers may do with a mounted phone differs by state — check Department of Transport (WA) for the rule in Western Australia.
- Keep a safe following distance: at least a 3-second gap from the vehicle ahead in dry conditions.
- Always check mirrors regularly and stay aware of your surroundings, not just what is directly ahead.
Common Mistakes
- Thinking short trips do not require the same level of attention: most crashes happen close to home.
- Picking the phone up at a red light: holding it is an offence even with the car stopped in traffic.
Practical Example
You feel a little tired on the way home. Rather than pushing through, you pull over safely to rest for 15 minutes. This simple decision can prevent a serious crash.
Quick Check
- How does fatigue affect driving?
- What is the minimum safe following distance in dry conditions?
- What do the phone rules in Western Australia allow a learner driver to do?
Source: Based on the Drive Safe handbook — Department of Transport (WA).