Monday, 22 July 2024
Austroads has published new guidance aimed at reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries on Australian and New Zealand roads caused by driver distraction.
Michael Nieuwesteeg, Austroads Road Safety and Design Program Manager said driver distraction has primarily been perceived as a behavioural issue.
“Driver distraction is often viewed as something drivers do intentionally, like looking at their phone or making a call, but this is not the whole story.
“While activities such as eating, drinking, using entertainment systems like the radio and having conversations with passengers in the vehicle can all contribute, up to 30 per cent of distraction-related crashes are caused by sources external to the vehicle.”
The guideline offers a framework for individuals or organisations who are addressing the issue of driver distraction. It does so in a manner consistent with the National Driver Distraction Roadmap.
“The guidance describes the current problem and state of driver distraction,” noted Michael. “It also discusses work Austroads has already completed, like the Forward Work Program.
“This marks an important advancement in increasing awareness and reducing instances of distracted-driving accidents on Australian and New Zealand roads.”
This publication is a part of a much larger long-term plan from Austroads. Austroads will continue to conduct research into this area, helping jurisdictions put an end to distracted driving. A mailing list has been set up for people interested in keeping up to date with the work and research Austroads will continue to do in this area. Subscribe here.
Download Driver Distraction Roadmap: Implementation Guide
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