'We ALL Need Space': How to drive safely around trucks this Christmas

The following is an abridgement of an article originally published on the NHVR website.

How to drive safely around trucks this Christmas, according to Aussie icons

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has launched a campaign called ‘We ALL Need Space’ to educate drivers on how to share the road safely with heavy vehicles this holiday season. The campaign features Australian icons such as comedian Jimmy Rees, ex rugby league player Sam Thaiday, country music artist James Blundell, Outback Truckers star Glenn Kendall and truck driver Casuarina Smith.

Why we need space

A recent study conducted by the NHVR, surveyed 1000 drivers across Australia and found that half of motorists (51%) experience anxiety or nervousness when driving near heavy vehicles.

The study also revealed that only 32% of drivers feel very knowledgeable about the rules for safely sharing the road with heavy vehicles.

The We All Need Space campaign focuses on simple yet vital safety tips: don’t overtake trucks, caravan etiquette, and remembering that trucks have much larger blind spots and need more space to stop.

How to show respect

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM said that roads are the workplace of truck drivers and they deserve respect. He also said that truck drivers are the real Santa Clauses of Australia, delivering our gifts and stocking our supermarkets during the festive season. Mr Petroccitto said,

“During the festive season, we see an increase in road traffic and, unfortunately, accidents, so our We ALL Need Space campaign is our response, aiming to educate and remind everyone of the importance of sharing the road with heavy vehicles."

“It’s important to remember that roads are their workplace and to treat them with respect. They play a crucial role in our festive spirit and economy, so we must ensure their safety and ours."

The We All Need Space campaign will be featured across social media to increase public awareness and build a community of informed and cautious drivers.

Where to learn more

For more information on We All Need Space, visit the website here. On the website you can also watch the videos of the Australian icons sharing their tips and stories.

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Sources

NHVR’s ‘We ALL Need Space’ campaign returns encouraging drivers to share the road safely with heavy vehicles this Christmas by NHVR, 4th December, 2023.