As driver-trained OTs, we’ve worked with many individuals who need to fine-tune their driving skills to maintain independence. While urban driving comes with its own set of challenges, rural roads are areas that often require special attention, especially for those unaccustomed to these environments.
The ARSF’s Rural Road Safety Month is a crucial campaign that brings attention to the heightened risks associated with driving on rural and remote roads in Australia.
A Closer Look at the 2023 Road Toll
In 2023, Australia saw 1,273 lives lost on its roads—a 7.9% increase from the previous year. Despite the common perception that rural areas are safer due to lower traffic volumes, almost two-thirds of these fatalities occurred on rural or remote roads.
Who is most at risk?
The data reveals that more than half of the lives lost were not drivers. Among the fatalities:
- 611 were drivers
- 251 were motorcyclists
- 210 were passengers
- 159 were pedestrians
- 35 were cyclists
- 7 were other road users
The toll was particularly high among specific demographics and during certain times:
- 3 in 4 deaths were male, highlighting a significant gender disparity in road fatalities.
- Most deaths occurred during the day (62%) and on weekdays (63%), contradicting the assumption that night-time or weekend driving is inherently more dangerous.
- By age group, those aged 40-64 years were most affected, accounting for 389 fatalities, followed by the 65+ age group with 293 fatalities, and 26-39 years with 284 fatalities.
What is the Cost?
The human cost of road fatalities is immeasurable, but the economic impact is also staggering. In 2023, the annual economic cost of road trauma in Australia was estimated at almost $30 billion.
But What Can We Do?
1. Adapt Your Speed to the Conditions
Rural roads can be deceptive. While they may seem quiet and open, they can quickly turn treacherous if you’re driving too fast. The lack of street lighting, sharp curves, and potential for loose gravel or potholes means that you need to adjust your speed to match the conditions.
2. Stay Alert for Wildlife and Farm Equipment
Wildlife is a common hazard on rural roads, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are more active. Hitting an animal can not only be tragic but also cause significant damage to your vehicle and put you in danger. Likewise, farm equipment is often slow-moving and can take up much of the road. Approach these situations with patience and care.
3. Understand the Importance of Defensive Driving
On rural roads, defensive driving is critical. This means being aware of your surroundings, anticipating potential hazards, and maintaining a safe following distance. Because rural roads are often narrower, you’ll need to be especially careful when passing other vehicles.
4. Plan Ahead for Emergencies
One of the most important aspects of rural driving is preparation. Before heading out, ensure your vehicle is in good condition—check your tire pressure, oil levels, and make sure you have a full tank of gas. Keep a roadside emergency kit in your car, and make sure your phone is fully charged. Remember, help may not be readily available in rural areas, so it’s crucial to be self-sufficient.
5. Managing Fatigue
Rural driving can be monotonous, which may lead to fatigue—a serious safety risk. To combat this, take regular breaks to stretch and rest. If you start to feel drowsy, it’s better to pull over in a safe location than to push on.
The data from 2023 paints a clear picture: rural and remote road safety remains a critical issue in Australia. With almost two-thirds of road deaths occurring in these areas, it’s more important than ever for all of us to take responsibility and make a concerted effort to reduce road trauma. By staying vigilant and adhering to road safety guidelines, we can work together to make our roads safer for everyone.
Let’s #ChooseRoadSafety and commit to making a difference—because every life lost on our roads is one too many.
