How and why to avoid risky driving behaviours

Reducing speed

Drivers who travel at higher speeds have less time to identify and react to what is happening around them, and it takes them longer to stop. If there is a crash, it is more severe, causing greater injury to the occupants and any other road users they hit. Drive at a safe speed for the conditions and always stay within the speed limit.

Many drivers unintentionally exceed the speed limit, often without realising it. But as your speed increases, your chance of having a crash does too. In fact, driving at just 5 km/h over the speed limit increases your risk of a crash by almost 50%. When driving remember to:

• Slow down in areas where there are pedestrians, cyclists and children.

• Drive to the conditions and reduce your speed in poor weather or if the road is narrow, winding, rough or slippery.

• Don’t be pressured into driving over the speed limit if someone is tailgating

• Allow enough time to get to your destination. Speeding because you’re running late isn’t worth the risk of a crash.

Driving too slowly (well below the speed limit in free-flowing conditions) can cause frustration for other drivers, who may tailgate you or overtake when it's not safe. If you find yourself in this situation, find somewhere safe to pull over and let other traffic pass. On roads with two or more lanes, use the left-hand lane.

Avoid distractions 

Taking your eyes off the road for two seconds or more doubles the risk of a crash. And you’re 10 times more likely to crash if you are looking at or using a mobile phone whilst driving.

The best way to stay safe while driving is to avoid any distractions. Safe driving requires concentration, so avoid unnecessary distractions, such as using a hand-held or hands-free mobile phone, smoking or eating when driving. Plan rest breaks where you can check messages and have a snack.

If you carry pets in your car, remember to restrain them properly. An unrestrained cat, dog or other pet can distract the driver and could cause serious injury to themselves and others in a car crash. 

Don't drive when tired

Ageing related fatigue issues such as insomnia and difficulty falling asleep are common, and staying asleep can be hard due to certain medical conditions or chronic pain. It is important to note that driving when tired or fatigued is a factor in up to 20% of all road crashes in Victoria. And not just on long drives either. Fatigue is a risk on short trips too.

If you’re planning to drive on a long trip, there are some simple ways to make sure you’re safe:

• Have a good night’s sleep before you drive.

• Plan your route with rest breaks at least every two hours.

• Share the driving with someone.

• Listen to your body clock and don’t drive when you would normally be sleeping

• Pull over and have a 15-minute powernap if you feel at all drowsy and it is safe to do so.

• Don’t drink any alcohol before you drive, and check that any medications you’re taking won’t make you drowsy.

Don't drink then drive

Alcohol affects your perception, vision, concentration, reaction time and can make you drowsy, which, in turn, increases your chances of having a crash. About 1 in 5 drivers and riders killed on Victorian roads have a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) over the legal limit of 0.05.

Even after just one drink, it’s very difficult to be sure you’re still under the limit or safe to drive. That’s why you should plan not to drive if you are going to drink alcohol.

Don't take drugs then drive

Driving while under the influence of drugs is dangerous, to ourselves and everyone else on the roads. Some prescription and over the counter medicines can severely impact your ability to drive safely as well.

If you’re taking any medication, make sure you take it as prescribed. And always check with your doctor or pharmacist that it’s safe for you to continue driving.

Wear a seatbelt

Evidence shows people who choose not to wear a seatbelt are putting their life at risk.

If wearing a seatbelt feels uncomfortable for you, you may need to adjust the seat, seatbelt and steering wheel to ensure they are set up in the correct position.