Unfortunately, serious road incidents are still occurring on our roads. Sadly, there have been some tragic events reported over the last few weeks and months.
Injury Matters wants everyone on our transport network to end up at their destination safely. Winter weather creates some challenges to our road safety, and it’s vital we all take steps to keep ourselves and others safe on the road.
So what can help you drive safely this season?
Check your tyres
We’ve already seen the heavy rain and stormy weather soak WA over the last few weeks, but how many of us have checked our cars are safe to drive?
Tyre safety is vital in winter. Our tyre grooves allow water to flow underneath our tyres while gripping the road to ensure good handling and safe braking.
Aquaplaning happens when your grooves can’t displace the water, leading to skidding and loss of control, which can lead to a crash.
Well-filled tyres also ensure your traction on the road – increasing your control, reducing your fuel costs, and enhancing safety behind the wheel.
Make it a habit to check your tyres at least once a month when you stop for fuel.
Tip: while it is not always accurate, you can check your tyre grooves with a 20c coin!
Place the coin between the grooves of each of your tyres – if the tread doesn’t reach the platypus bill, you have less than 3mm of tread, and should replace your tyres soon.
If your tyres are more than 5 years old, make sure they’re inspected by a professional every year. If they are more than 10 years old it is definitely time for a new set.
Update your service
Keep your car servicing up to date, especially:
- Check your windscreen wipers – old or worn wipers can affect your vision of the road ahead
- Brake pads – slippery roads can become even more hazardous with worn brake pads, even if you are leaving adequate brake room.
- Wheel alignment – while the best way to avoid aquaplaning on wet roads is by having good tyre grip, your wheel alignment can affect your control around corners.
Drive safely!
Driving well isn’t limited to chilly weather, however our decisions behind the wheel can make all the difference when it’s raining.
Research shows that for every 5km/h increase in travelling speed in a 60km/h zone, the risk of being injured in a crash doubles. Minimise your risk of a crash by driving to conditions at a safe speed, especially if the rain is heavy and your vision is blurred.
Leave a safe braking space, commit to your travel time before your keys are in the ignition and enjoy the journey with a set playlist or podcast; allowing your concentration to stay on the road ahead.
Road crashes are avoidable
We should not accept that road trauma is a natural part of using the road network. Small things like checking your tyres or reducing your speed can make a big difference. We can all play a part in keeping ourselves, our friends, families and communities safe this winter.
About Road Trauma Support WA
Injury Matters are Western Australia’s injury prevention and recovery specialists. Our Road Trauma Support WA program offers a range of recovery support, information and resources for everyone, designed to help you move forward after a crash.
Free counselling is available, regardless of your involvement, or when the crash occurred. You don’t have to deal with road trauma alone. We’re here for you.
If you or someone you know has been affected by road trauma talk to our friendly team on 1300 004 814 or find helpful fact sheets and guides at www.rtswa.org.au.