Safe driving during summer: NSW guide

Ah summer, a time for beach days, barbecues and outdoor adventures. It’s a wonderful time of year, but it’s also a time to take extra precautions on our roads. Here, we dive into what you can do to stay safe during the brightest of seasons.

NSW is no stranger to hot and humid weather, especially during the summer months. On especially hot days, take the following steps to help ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Plan your trip: where possible, aim for an early morning departure to avoid driving during the hottest time of day.

Check your car: before taking a trip, check your car’s engine fluid levels (such as oil and coolant) and ensure your tyre pressure is sitting at the right PSI (as outlined in your car’s manual).

Protect your car’s interior: where possible, park in shady areas and use windscreen protectors to reflect sunlight away from your steering wheel and seats. Not only will this help keep your car cooler, it can also help reduce damage and fading from the sun.

Rolling landscapes, fresh air and no traffic — those country roads sure are something else! Driving in rural and remote areas can certainly be rewarding, but it can carry many risks and challenges, too.

Wildlife collisions pose a big risk to drivers on country roads. In fact, 1 in every 41 casualty crashes on country roads involves a vehicle hitting an animal.

Typically active at dusk and dawn near waterholes and creeks, native animals can be fast and unpredictable, making it difficult for drivers to know what to expect. However, there are some simple precautions you can take to stay safe.

Time your drive: avoid driving at sunrise and sunset when visibility is low.

Stay alert: take note of animal warning signs as you drive and be prepared to slow down and stop.

Never swerve: avoid harsh turns as you may lose control of your vehicle.

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and one poor choice can have life-changing consequences. Taking your eyes off the road for just two seconds on a 60km/h road is the equivalent of driving 33 metres blind, and can double your chances of being involved in a road accident.

This is why the Double Demerits Enforcement road safety campaign exists in NSW — to deter people from doing the wrong thing and help keep people safe on our roads.

The double demerit scheme applies for the following traffic offences on public holidays:

• speeding
• illegally using a mobile phone while driving
• you or a passenger of your vehicle not wearing or incorrectly wearing a seat belt
• riding a bike or motorcycle without a helmet.

We hope these tips help keep you and others safe on our roads this summer. Remember, plan ahead, stay alert, avoid distractions and wear your seatbelt.