The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is urging all drivers to do their part and stay safe behind the wheel to help combat Australia's concerning road toll.
This year's National Road Safety Week, running until 18 May, is focused on reducing road fatalities and injuries, with more than 40,000 injuries and 1,200 deaths each year on Australia's roads.
Alarmingly, in 2024 there were 197 fatalities resulting from crashes involving heavy vehicles.
NHVR Interim Chief Executive Officer Janelle van de Velde said sharing vital information about how to drive safely around heavy vehicles was crucial in supporting safety on our roads.
"From January through to March this year, tragically 300 deaths have already been recorded on Australian roads; 30 of which have involved heavy vehicles," Ms van de Velde said.
"One death on our roads is one too many and each person that uses our roads as a driver, passenger, pedestrian or motorist deserves to return home to their loved ones each day.
"The NHVR runs numerous safety campaigns to provide education to drivers on how to safely drive around trucks; whether you're a seasoned driver or just starting with your learner or provisional license."
This National Road Safety Week, the NHVR is reminding light vehicle drivers to:
- Maintain a safe following distance when driving behind a truck and remember that some trucks carry large loads (you may need as much as five kilometres to overtake them),
- Don't linger by the truck as you may be in their blind spot, and
- Don't cut in front of the truck and always allow plenty of time when overtaking (cutting off a truck can cause them to brake hard or swerve off the road).
NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said the week is also a reminder for heavy vehicle drivers and operators to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and fit for the elements.
"Drivers should always drive to road conditions and be adaptable, as driving conditions will change depending on weather events," Mr Salvati said.
"One of the main issues we're seeing in all states and territories is the maintenance of heavy vehicle brakes, which is a major safety concern.
"In our recent National Roadworthiness Survey, of more than 14,000 units inspected, 33% presented with a non-conformity, the most common being brakes.
"Operators have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and that braking systems are in top condition; not just to safeguard their fleet, but more importantly protect their drivers and all road users."
The NHVR recommends using a daily pre-start checklist, such as the NHVR's Daily Safety Checklist, before each trip to ensure vehicles are roadworthy.
