New Transport Accident Commission (TAC) research shows a concerning number of Victorian drivers admitting to engaging in more than one risky or illegal behavior behind the wheel.
The latest TAC Road Safety Monitor – an annual survey of more than 2000 Victorian license holders – found that drivers who admitted to one unsafe behavior were highly likely to report others, showing a pattern of motorist ‘risk stacking’ on the state’s roads.
Findings from the report reveal the extent to which these behaviors overlap across the driving population. Almost half (47.4 per cent) of respondents said they had both knowingly driven while ‘quite tired’ and intentionally sped by more than 3 km/h over the limit, in the past 12 months.
The survey, which asks about road safety behaviors and attitudes, also found 40.2 per cent of drivers reported both low-level speeding and using a hand-held mobile phone, while 38.2 per cent admitted to using a mobile phone and driving while tired.
The research also showed nearly one in three respondents (32.9 per cent) reported driving after drinking alcohol, as well as driving while tired, in the past year.
According to the TAC, drink-driving is a factor in around a quarter of road deaths in Victoria, while tired driving is involved in 16 to 20 per cent of fatal crashes.
“These findings are a stark reminder that dangerous driving behavior puts lives at risk,” said TAC CEO, Tracey Slatter.
“Every dangerous choice – whether it’s speeding, distraction, fatigue or alcohol – raises your risk of a crash and combining them multiplies the danger. Slow down, stay focused, and never drive impaired.”
