Logistics and transport specialist insurer NTI has reminded motorists to drive carefully this festive season as Australian shoppers continue to shop online for last-minute holiday gifts, leading to a busy freight period.
According to NTI’s annual data report, which represents the largest on record for heavy vehicles in Australia, the car driver is at fault in 70% of fatal crashes involving a car and truck.
NTI chief customer officer Janelle Greene said this year was the first festive season since 2019 without border closures.
“Many drivers may be travelling long distances for the first time in a long time,” she said. “That means travelling on unfamiliar roads and sharing routes with various vehicle types, from cars to trucks and caravans.”
NTI advised inexperienced or out-of-practice drivers to be careful when driving around heavy vehicles.
“Remember, it takes a longer distance for trucks to brake, so leave plenty of space if you’re overtaking,” Greene said. “Trucks have larger blind spots, so be conscious the driver may not be able to see you. Trucks also require more space to manoeuvre, so avoid any risky behaviours, like cutting in front of a heavy vehicle.”
NTI also reminded drivers to be particularly aware of distraction and fatigue when travelling long distances, with the insurer’s research showing a car travelling the opposite direction to a truck is the cause of over three in four fatal crashes where the car driver is at fault.
“Particularly on remote roads, drives can become monotonous. Take your time, schedule plenty of breaks, leave your phone turned off, and remember, the only solution for fatigue is sleep. We want everyone to make it to their destination safely this Christmas,” Greene said.
On the bright side, NTI’s review of nearly two decades of truck accident data found a vast improvement in the Australian trucking industry’s safety performance.
