News

Aug 24, 2023

NHVR shares road safety message

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is urging all road users to take

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is urging all road users to take care around heavy vehicles ahead of the Christmas and New Year period.

NHVR CEO, Sal Petroccitto, said the upcoming holiday period is a timely reminder for the community to ensure they are driving safely around trucks.

"It's important that all road users are aware that a truck is difficult to manoeuvre, it has large blindspots and other vehicles can be hidden behind, alongside and in front," he said.

"When you add it all together, it really does take a lot of skill for a truck driver to get from point A to point B safely and all road users need to play a role in the safety of that journey."

The NHVR's We Need Space campaign was launched to provide tips to light vehicle drivers on how they can safely share the roads with trucks.

Petroccitto said sharing the We Need Space message is vital and could help save lives during Australia's busiest time of year on roads.

"Never cut in front of an oversize vehicle – they can't stop suddenly, and they can't bend. When going round a corner, they can sweep across several lanes, so passing on corners can be extremely dangerous.

"By following these simple steps, you can help keep Australia's roads safe for all road users over the Christmas and New Year break," he said.

"A part of our role as the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator is to keep our roads safe and heavy vehicles moving and it's through a shared understanding across all road users around how to share our roads safely that allows this to happen."

In addition to the We Need Space campaign, the NHVR's Don't Muck with a Truck campaign is aimed at helping young drivers operate safely around trucks.

Following its message, the NHVR has reminded drivers to look out for the signs of fatigue and prioritise their health and wellbeing during the holiday period.

Petrocitto said it's an important reminder because the five key indicators of fatigue can affect drivers at any time.

"As we know, fatigue can impact every individual differently and it's possible for drivers to be affected even when they are compliant with their work and rest limits," he said.

"We are reminding drivers to be vigilant and aware of the five indicators of fatigue – inattention, irregular body movements, erratic vehicle movements, dull sensory alertness or poor concentration.

"You are the best person to identify if you’re getting fatigued and need a break.

"If you do notice the signs, please act early, stop and rest."

Petrocitto said physical and mental health can also impact fatigue, so it's important everyone in the heavy vehicle industry prioritises their health.

"I encourage all drivers to speak to their employer about reviewing trip schedules regularly, to break up the monotony of driving the same routes, which can contribute to inattention and fatigue," he said.

"By focusing on fatigue this holiday season, we can help keep all road users safe and ensure everyone has a safe journey home to their loved ones."

The NHVR recommended that drivers who feel pressured to drive while fatigued should call its Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Hotline on 1800 931 785.

In other news, four new Performance-Based Standards (PBS) combinations have been approved to operate in Victoria.

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