Nhvr Urges Drivers To Share Roads Safely

With more families, caravanners and heavy vehicles expected on the roads during the school holidays, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is urging all drivers to slow down, stay alert and give trucks the space they need.

School holidays mean more people travelling on the road – often on unfamiliar routes and at different times of day – making it even more important for drivers to understand how to safely share the road with heavy vehicles.

NHVR Corporate Affairs Executive Director Michelle Tayler says taking a few extra moments could make a significant difference to road safety.

“There will be an influx of people on the roads and this means many drivers will be trying to get to their destination as quickly as they can,” Tayler says.

“We are urging everyone to slow down, remain alert at all times and take regular breaks. Plan your journey and allocate more time so you’re not in a rush to get somewhere.

“Everyone who’s on the road deserves to return home safety each and every time.”

Tayler says the NHVR had a number of education resources aimed at driver safety around heavy vehicles to help keep you safe these holidays.

“We know some drivers might have anxiety while driving near a heavy vehicle and we suggest they slow down, give them enough room and make sure they stay out of their blind spots,’ she says.

“If you’re overtaking a truck, make sure you have a clear view ahead and plenty of road to complete the manoeuvre safely.

“And remember, if you can’t see the truck driver in their mirrors, there’s a good chance they can’t see you.

“Give trucks room to turn, don’t cut in front of them and avoid travelling alongside them for longer than necessary.”

Truck Therapy and Don’t Be a Truckwit are NHVR’s latest iterations of the popular Don’t #uck with a Truck Campaign.

While the campaigns primarily target L and P platers, Tayler says the advice was relevant to every road user.

Tips when driving near heavy vehicles:

• Trucks often need to take up more than one lane to turn corners, intersections and roundabouts so keep both lanes beside a truck free.
• If you are overtaking a truck, wait for a dedicated overtaking lane or long stretch of road where you have a clear view ahead and only pull back in when you can see a truck’s headlights in your rear-view mirror.
• When pulling in front of a truck, give them three to four times more space than you would give a car. Trucks take a lot longer to slow down and stop than cars.
• If you’re too close in front or behind or driving next to the driver or passenger door of a truck, you’re in a blind spot and are basically invisible.

The NHVR also has an anonymous Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line for anyone concerned about the safety of a heavy vehicle or heavy vehicle operation.

Reports can be made by calling 1800 931 785 or through the Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line.

“Everyone has a role to play in keeping our roads safe,” Tayler says.

“Your information could help prevent a serious incident and save lives.”

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