Home » Road Safety » Driving on Our Australian Country Roads

Driving on Our Australian Country Roads

posted in: Road Safety 0

Australia offers beautiful views that make for a gorgeous drive out on the country roads. However, it’s essential that you drive safely when you’re out and about. This applies even if there aren’t other drivers in sight. You want to stay safe while you take in the view, and these quick tips can help.

 

car parked in country field

1. Know the Speed Limits – No matter which road you travel on, you want to know the speed limits. Also, just because the sign says that the speed limit is 100km/h doesn’t mean that you necessarily have to drive that fast. Use your common sense and adjust your driving speed to match the surrounding road conditions. Be on the lookout for potholes, narrow stretches of road, blind corners and single lane bridges.

2. Gently Correct Yourself if You Hit a Soft Corner – Most country roads have soft shoulders that can cause you to lose control of your car if you overreact. Don’t stomp on the break or jerk the wheel. Instead, hold the wheel firmly and gently take your foot off the accelerator and ease back onto the road. Also, be aware that dirt roads take longer to stop on, and your vehicle is less responsive.

3. Watch Out for Wildlife – You’re more liable to see and hit wildlife out on country roads, especially at dusk or after dark. If you see an animal on the road, honk your horn and flash your lights instead of swerving. Some animals get paralysed in your headlight’s glow.

4. Consider Your Driving Condition – If your driving conditions make it difficult to see properly, always switch on your lights. Rain, fog, sunset or sunrise are prime times and conditions to have obscured vision. It’s also a good idea to drive slower during these times.

5. Stay Awake and Aware – Driving for a long stretch can make you more prone to getting tired and missing things. Make sure that you pay attention to what your body is telling you. If you notice that you’re yawning, your eyes are red or irritated, you’re having difficulty concentrating, or that you’re making larger and more frequent corrections, pull over and rest.

These five quick tips can help to ensure that you stay safe while you’re out and about driving on our country roads. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and take in all of the sites that Australia has to offer and come home safe from your trip.