Rain, Hail or Shine, Think Safety This Winter

17 May 2011

MEDIA RELEASE: Tuesday 17 May 2011

As we experience the start of a wet winter for Victoria, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) will today join Victoria Police and the VACC to promote safe driving tips for motorists.

Seventy people have been killed on Victorian roads during winter over the past two years, and the TAC is concerned that this number could spiral if the wet and adverse weather conditions continue. 

TAC Road Safety Manager, Samantha Cockfield, urges motorists to do all they can to stay safe this winter.

"Every death on our roads is preventable and taking a few simple precautions can make a big difference," Ms Cockfield said.

A key step that is easy for every driver and rider to practice is slowing down when weather conditions become adverse.

Wet conditions mean stopping distance increases and car control more difficult for cars without Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or ABS.

"Slowing down will reduce the likelihood of emergency braking and if it does occur, there will be more time to react and take evasive action."

Another easy step is ensuring you car or bikes tires are in top condition.

An RACV study found one in five cars on Victoria’s roads had at least one un-roadworthy tyre.

In addition, tests on wet roads prove braking at 80km/h on unsafe tyres adds an extra three car lengths in stopping distance, compared to near-new tyres.

"Many drivers take tyre tread, pressure and condition for granted but their importance should not be underestimated."

"Tyres are the only thing between you and the road, so it is vital they are in good condition."

"Quality tyres in good condition could be the difference between surviving a crash, or avoiding one completely."

Ms Cockfield said motorists should also remember that fog, ice and snow can create deadly conditions.

"Slow down, and if you can see fog or mist ahead, reduce your speed before you enter and drive accordingly."

"In very thick fog, make sure you always know where you are on the road and never drive at a speed that forces you to guess what is ahead. Overtaking must be avoided.

Victorians heading to the snow this winter are encouraged to follow these safety tips:

• Drive slowly on ice and snow to retain traction.
• Braking should be gentle and not left to the last second
• Use an even pressure on the accelerator to lessen the chances of wheel spin and loss of control.
• Use lower gears than normal to reduce speed and assist in keeping good traction.
• If necessary, give way to vehicles going up the mountain as they have more difficulty in starting again if stopped.

"Finally, it is timely we remind anyone who is purchasing a car this winter to look for a vehicle that has Electronic Stability Control (ESC)."

"While it is mandatory for all new cars to have ESC, not all used cars have it, so we encourage you to make it a priority when you’re looking."

To find out how your car stacks up safety-wise, visit www.howsafeisyourcar.com.au

And for motorcyclists considering a new bike, don’t underestimate the ability of ABS to reduce your crash risk.

For more information, contact Sarah Henderson on 0429 294 262