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The latest truck-crash statistics revealed that 93% of multi-vehicle fatalities involving a heavy vehicle in Australia are caused by cars, prompting a specialist insurer to urge all road users to take responsibility in ensuring that Australian roads are safe, especially this Christmas.
The safety plea comes as new laws governing Australia’s trucking industry are introduced.
“We know there is often a negative public perception when it comes to truck safety and accidents; however, this data tells a different story. It’s important to remember trucks are the lifeblood of Australia,” said Tony Clark, National Transport Insurance (NTI) CEO. “As Australia’s number-one truck insurer, NTI processes more than 13,000 claims from truck drivers each year and we have the nation’s most comprehensive data. Leading into Christmas, we face a 14% spike in claims. Most truck drivers are professional, and many also have families waiting for them at home. The best gift from motorists this Christmas is to help everyone stay safe.”
Ray Hassall, acting CEO of National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), said the recent Chain of Responsibility (CoR) changes make everyone involved with the trucking industry accountable for the safety of their transport activities.
“Any time a person or business sends or receives goods using a heavy vehicle, they have a shared responsibility to ensure safety,” Hassall said. “If you’re a motorist, be aware that heavy vehicles require more distance to slow down, need more space when turning and need access to rest bays and truck stops.”
The NHVR and NTI launched a Christmas social media campaign, providing drivers tips on how to operate safely around heavy vehicles. The specialist insurer also rolled out a new initiative to help industry operators adapt to the legislation reforms.
