PDF Rs the Essential Driving Companion Jun10 Complete

7/30/2019 PDF Rs the Essential Driving Companion Jun10 Complete

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Transport and Main Roads

The essentialdriving companion


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Connecting Queensland

Introduction 1Safe drivers are good drivers 2

You cant drive straight on drugs 5

Safe drivers dont speed 7

Seatbelts and child restraints 9

Wake up to the signs of driver fatigue 11Driven to distraction 13

Your vehicle 15

Planning ahead 17

Pull your weight safely 20

Drive to the conditions 24Intelligent Transport Systems / Free-ow tolling 28

Share the road 30

Your tness to drive 35

A road rules refresher course 36

Want to know more? 40

Contents


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Living in a large state such as Queensland meansdriving is an important part of life for most of us.Many of us cover large distances for work, holidaysand recreation. From gravel outback roads to cityfreeways, this guide includes valuable informationthat will make driving safer.

Unfortunately, death and injuries on our roads are aheart-breaking reality. They happen to real people justlike you and your family. The even bigger tragedy is roadtrauma can be avoided. The better educated you areabout road safety, the better driver you become and thegreater your chances of survival.

Speeding, driving tired, under the inuence of drugsor alcohol, or unbuckled, have all been identied ascontributing factors for a large proportion of road crashfatalities and hospitalisations. This guide gives youinformation about how to avoid the consequences ofthese behaviours, valuable tips on holiday driving, andbasic road rules to help you arrive at your destinationsafely. Please take the time to read it, keep it in your glovebox and refer to it regularly.

Take care on the road and drive safely. Be here for life.Visit www.hereforlife.qld.gov.au for safe driving tips.


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Safe drivers are good drivers


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Alcohol and bitumen dont mixDrink driving is inexcusable. It has been responsiblefor so much death, injury and heartache. The cost isimmeasurable. Tragically, alcohol is a contributing factor

in about a quarter of all fatal crashes.It aects your judgement, vision, coordination andreexes. Never drive if you think you may be overthe alcohol limit. Not only is it extremely dangerous,its illegal.

If you drive when you are over the blood alcohol limit, you

may be charged. If you are convicted, youll face seriouspenalties and consequences:

your driver licence will be cancelled

you will be disqualied from holding or obtaininga further driver licence for a stated period

you will be ned and may be jailed.

How to avoid drink driving If youre planning to drink, plan alternative travel

catch a taxi or public transport, arrange a lift with a

non-drinking driver or organise to stay overnight. Discourage friends or family from driving when they

have been drinking.

Nominate one person in your group as the sober driver.

Do not mix drugs and alcohol.


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Standard drinks ruleUse the standard drinks rule as a guide to stay underthe 0.05 limit. Remember, this is a guide only and somepeople can drink less and still be over the 0.05 limit.

Men can generally consume two drinks in therst hour and one drink every subsequent hour.

Women can generally have one drink in therst hour and one every hour after that.

Always check the blood alcohol content (BAC)requirements for your licence class.

Onestandard

drink of fullstrength beer

(285ml)

One standarddrink of spirits

(30ml nip)in a mixer

One standarddrink of spirits

(30ml nip)

One standarddrink of wine

(100ml)

Please note: In 2010 the Queensland Government is

proposing to introduce zero BAC requirements for alllearner and provisional licence holders regardlessof age. Keep up to date by visiting the Department ofTransport and Main Roads website www.tmr.qld.gov.auor call 13 23 80.


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Driving under the inuence of drugs is dangerousand can aect your driving ability.

From simple paracetamol and prescribed painkillersto illegal drugs, they all have the potential to aectyour ability to drive safely. With side-eects such

as slower reaction times, distorted perceptions ofspeed and distance, and reduced concentration andcoordination why would you risk it?

Police conduct random roadside saliva tests for illegaldrugs such as marijuana, speed, ice and ecstasy.

You cant drivestraight on drugs


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Safety tipsMixing drugs with other drugs or alcohol can seriouslyaect your health and ability to drive safely. You may not

feel intoxicated, but you could in fact be over the limit. Never drive after taking illegal drugs.

Never drive after taking prescribed or over-the-countermedications that could aect your driving.

Always ask your pharmacist if the prescription orover-the-counter drug you are about to use could

impair your driving.

If you take any drug and you are unsure of the eectof that drug on your ability to drive, dont drive usepublic transport, ask someone else to drive or catcha taxi.


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Speeding is a major cause of crashes inQueensland. Every kilometre per hour over thelimit aects whether a crash happens, and how

severe it is.

The faster you drive the longer ittakes to stopIts a simple fact. If youre driving at 60km/h for example,it takes 56 metres to stop. At 65km/h it takes 63 metres tostop. That could be the dierence between life and death.

Following distance

You need a safety cushion around your vehicle to drivesafely. If you follow another vehicle too closely and thedriver ahead brakes suddenly, a crash may be dicultto avoid.

Safe drivers dont speed

How long it takes to stop (driving an average sized vehicle)

Vehicle

speed

Distance in metres

42 m

Braking distance

56 m25 31

71 m29 42

88 m

107 m37 70

127 m42 85

150 m

Reaction distance

21 21

46 104

Total stopping distance

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160

5533

50km/h

60km/h

70km/h

80km/h

90km/h

100km/h

110km/h


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You must keep a sucient distance between yourvehicle and the vehicle in front of you so you can stop,if necessary, to avoid a crash.

Two seconds is the recommended minimum followingdistance when driving a car in ideal driving conditions.

If towing a caravan or trailer, allow one extra secondfor each three metres of the caravan or trailer in idealdriving conditions.

Heavy vehicles need to allow a following distance ofat least four seconds.

Use the time-lapse method to keep a safe followingdistance by picking a mark on the road such as a powerpole. When the rear of the vehicle ahead passes the mark,count one thousand one, one thousand two (this shouldtake about two seconds). If the front of your vehiclepasses the object before you nish counting, you are tooclose and need to drop back.

Driving for the conditionsRegardless of the speed limit, you may need todrive much slower in wet or foggy weather, or incongested conditions.

Always consider the conditions and adjust your speed tosuit. It is generally recommended that you double yourfollowing distance in wet or slippery conditions.

Speeding is expensiveSpeeding can cost you a lot. If you are caught speedingyou will be ned and accumulate demerit points.Accumulate 12 points or more in a three-year period onyour Open licence and youll lose your licence. If you havea Learner or Provisional licence it only takes 4 points inone year before you lose your licence. Double demeritpoints apply to drivers caught more than 20km/h over the

speed limit twice in 12 months.In Queensland, double demerit points are issued 365 daysa year not just on public holidays.


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Seatbelts and child restraints

Seatbelts can improve your chance of survivinga serious crash by up to 50 per cent. Thats acompelling enough reason to buckle up even ifyoure just going around the corner.

Under Queensland law, everyone in a vehicle mustwear a fastened seatbelt at all times. The penalty forfailing to wear a seatbelt is three demerit points and ane. The driver is also responsible for ensuring everypassenger (regardless of age) wears a secured seatbelt orcorrectly tted child restraint. The driver can be ned andaccumulate demerit points for failing to do so.


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A good t saves livesAlways wear your seatbelt correctly. A seatbelt wornincorrectly could cause neck, chest or abdominal injuriesin a crash and wont be able to protect you as it is

designed to do. Wear a seatbelt with the buckle low on the hip, the

sash running from the shoulder across the chest andabove the stomach, and the lap part sitting across thepelvis and the hips.

Pregnant women must wear the seatbelt with the lap

part over the thighs, across the pelvis and below theunborn child, and the sash above the stomach andbetween the breasts.

Check your seatbelt is not twisted, frayed or loose.

Everyone in the car must have their own seatbelt do not share a seatbelt.

Replace the entire seatbelt assembly if the vehicle isinvolved in a severe crash.

Fitting your childs seatbeltisnt a gameChildren are extremely vulnerable in a crash if theyare not using an Australian Standards approvedrestraint or correctly tted seatbelt. Selecting theappropriate restraint is only the rst step in protectingyour child. No restraint will work properly to preventinjury if it has not been tted in accordance with the

manufacturers directions.From 11 March 2010, all children up to seven years of agemust be secured in a child restraint, according to theirage and size.

For more information on child restraints andchoosing the correct restraint for your child, visit

www.transport.qld.gov.au/childrestraints.


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Sore eyes?Zoning out?Yawning?

Wake up to the signs of driver fatigueFatigue creeps up on drivers. Ignoring your bodysphysical warning signs can result in a crash. It is vital thatyou are alert at all times no matter how short the trip.

Knowing your bodys warning signs and planning your tripare the keys to your safety and survival on the road.

Driving at times when you are normally sleeping isparticularly dangerous.

Peak times for

fatigue crashes

2pm 4pm

10pm 6am

Danger signs your car wanders across the road

fumbling gear changes

daydreaming

unintentional increases or decreases in speed

sore or heavy eyes

dim or fuzzy vision

general tiredness

stiness and cramps aches and pains

seeing things

droning and humming in ears

delayed reactions.


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How do you prevent driving tired? Take regular breaks from the wheel at least

15 minutes every two hours is recommended.

Pull into rest areas, tourist spots and Driver Reviverstops frequently.

Avoid alcohol before and during the trip.

Check medications with your doctor (in case theymake you drowsy).

Eat properly not too little, not too much.

Sleep get plenty before your trip. Dont drive for more than ten hours in a day.

Share the driving stop and swap drivers.

Plan ahead arrange stops and rest overnight.

As soon as you feel tired, stop and rest to preventdriving tired.

Caeine, fresh air and loud music wont stop you frombeing tired when you are driving. The only cure is to stopdriving and rest.


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Distracted drivers are dangerous. Every yeardistracted drivers cause hundreds of crasheson Queensland roads. Anything that takes yourattention or focus away from driving and the road isa distraction and can lead to a crash. Dont becomecomplacent behind the wheel it only takes a split

second to lose your concentration.

Common distractionsSeemingly harmless activities can have disastrousoutcomes while driving. Here are a few commondistractions to avoid while driving:

changing music radio, CDs, MP3s

programming navigation systems or readinga street directory

responding to children or other passengers requiringyou to divert your eyes and attention o the road

putting on make-up.

Driven to distraction


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Mobile phonesDriving with a mobile phone in your hand is illegal andwill attract a ne and demerit points, even when youare stopped in trac (for example, at trac lights). This

includes texting. If you want to use a mobile phone whilethe phone is in your hand, you must pull over to a safeplace, park and turn o the engine. If it is too dicult ordangerous to pull over, let your message bank handle it.

Hands-free mobile phone kits and two-way radios arepermitted except as detailed below. However, you must

always drive with care and attention. Learner and provisional drivers (in their P1 phase)

who are under 25 are prohibited from using amobile phone at any time while driving, includingthe use of hands-free kits, loudspeaker functionand Bluetooth accessories.

Supervisors and passengers of learner drivers, andpassengers of provisional drivers (in their P1 phase)who are under 25, are also prohibited from using amobile phone on loudspeaker. They can use a mobilephone where only a one-way conversation can be heardand not distract the driver.

Tips to avoid distraction Plan ahead and make calls before you start driving or

during rest breaks on longer trips.

If you need to take a call, safely pull over rst, use your

hands-free or let your message bank handle it.

If you have an MP3 player or GPS navigator in yourvehicle set your play list or travel route before you startdriving and pull over if you need to reprogram.

Never take your eyes from the road to turn to talk topassengers in the rear seat.

Keep children occupied by having soft toys, healthysnacks and drinks on hand, playing family gamessuch as I Spy, taking regular stops and playingmusic they like.


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Will your vehicle go the distance?Whether you are going on a short or long distance trip,the car you drive and how well you maintain it aects yoursafety on the road.

Choosing a safe vehicleTake the time to choose a safe vehicle. Each year thereare more than 300 fatalities on Queensland roads. Someof the deaths and serious injuries could have beenprevented, or their severity reduced, if they happened in

a safe vehicle.Buying a car, either new or used, is a big decision tomake. Remember to consider a vehicles design and safetyfeatures, and their ability to protect you and other roadusers in a crash, before you buy. So do your homework!

Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP)

publishes a star ratings guide which can help you decidewhich new car is right for you.

To download ANCAPs latest crash test results brochurevisit www.ancap.com.au.

If you are looking to buy a used car, check out its used carsafety rating at www.transport.qld.gov.au/safetyratings.

The Used Car Safety Ratings is a helpful buyers guidethat compares vehicles based on actual crash test datacollected from all over Australia.

Your vehicle


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Look out for these safety featuresbefore you buy

a high ANCAP or used car safety rating

electronic stability control (ESC) side and curtain airbags

dual front airbags

anti-lock braking system (ABS)

3-point seatbelts in all positions

a cargo barrier if you are considering a station wagon.

Regular maintenanceIts a good idea to have your vehicle serviced and tunedregularly. Preparing your car before you hit the road is thebasis for a reliable and safe vehicle.

Double check tyres and tyre pressure (including your spare)

lights

windscreen wipers

battery

coolant levels

hoses

oil levels

fuel lines.

Have a wheel alignment and balance if necessary. Makesure you carry the tools required to change a at tyre andmake running repairs.


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Be prepared

Queensland is the second largest state in Australiaand many travellers often underestimate the distancesinvolved. For instance, its nearly as far to drive fromBrisbane to Cairns as it is from Brisbane to Melbourne.Taking the time to plan your trip before you leavecan make your journey a much smoother, safer and

enjoyable experience.Calculate how long it will take to get to your destination.Determine all the stops you need along the way to allowfor at least a 15 minute break every two hours.

Planning ahead


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What to packIf you are travelling long distances and particularly if youare heading into remote parts of Queensland, you shouldpack these items:

rst aid kit

water (20 litres for emergency use and four litresper person per day)

food, in case of delays or breakdown

re extinguisher

tool kit (jack, wheel brace, spanners, screwdrivers,spare fan belt, hoses and fuses)

two spare wheels

tow rope

shovel (in case you get bogged)

maps

compass or global positioning system (GPS) navigator

tarpaulin

cooler or portable fridge

rubbish bags

matches or lighter

communication equipment (your mobile maynot work in the outback)

toilet paper.

Note: The information provided should be treatedas a guide only.


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Packing your vehicleIt is important not to restrict your visibility while drivingin any way make sure the drivers view out the backwindow through the rear vision mirror is not obstructed

by any items.Any loose items at the rear of a car, particularly inwagons, should be secured. Any sudden braking willinstantly turn seemingly harmless items into dangerousprojectiles. Nets, cages and cargo barriers are also agood preventative measure.

Fuel and food stopsOn long distance journeys, take into account theavailability of fuel and food supplies. If you are travellingvast distances in remote areas, plan to have enoughfuel, food and water to last you between towns and

service stations.

Rest stopsWhether it is just to stretch your legs, eat, rehydrate ortake a toilet break, having a break between long distance

driving will help you keep awake and alert.Look out for Driver Reviver locations for a goodopportunity to get out of the car, stretch your legs andhave a free tea or coee. To nd out when and whereDriver Reviver stops are operating in Queensland visitwww.transport.qld.gov.au/Home/Safety/Road/Driver_reviver.


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Pull your weight safely


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Towing a trailer or caravanTowing a trailer or caravan requires extra concentrationand skill. You should gain experience before trying to towat high speed or in conned spaces. Consider a few small

practice trips before heading o on a long trip.Vehicles towing caravans and driving too closely togethermake it hard for other motorists to overtake safely.Consider other motorists and allow plenty of distancebetween you and other vehicles.

Driving tips for towing

Changing lanes safely when towing:

Allow for the extra length and width of a trailer whenentering trac and allow for its tendency to cut inon corners and curves.

Allow more time and distance to overtake because ofthe reduced performance of the towing vehicle andavoid cutting o the overtaken vehicle.

Pull o the road where suitable, to avoid a build-upof trac unable to overtake.

Handling caravan/trailer sway:

Apply the accelerator, brakes and steering smoothlyand gently to avoid sway, especially in wet orslippery conditions.

Allow for the increased eects of cross-winds, passing

vehicles and uneven road surfaces on the vehicle andtrailer combination.

Avoid applying the towing vehicles brakes if the trailerbegins to sway or snake. If the trailer is tted withbrakes that can be operated independently, applythem gently. Otherwise, continue at a steady speed oraccelerate slightly (never exceeding the speed limit)until the sway stops.


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Braking safely when towing:

Leave a greater following distance to the vehicleahead, increase the gap for longer, heavier trailers andallow even more distance in poor driving conditions

(see the Safe drivers dont speedsection for followingdistances for caravans and trailers).

Engage a lower gear in both manual and automaticvehicles when travelling downhill to increase vehiclecontrol and reduce strain on brakes.

Restraining your loadAs a driver, you have a legal responsibility to yourpassengers, other road users and yourself to ensure thatthe load youre carrying is securely restrained.

If your load overhangs at the front, back or sides, checkthat the dimensions are legal at the Department of

Transport and Main Roads website: www.tmr.qld.gov.au(search load overhang) or call 13 12 80.

It is unsafe and illegal to overload a trailer orcaravan. You must ensure:

the aggregate trailer mass (ATM) specied by the

trailer manufacturer is not exceeded

tyre or tow coupling capacities are not exceeded

lights, number plate and registration labels arenot obscured in any way.


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General conditions to follow when loading a trailer:

For boat trailers, the length of the boat and mastbehind the trailer axle must not exceed the length ofboat in front of the axle.

Caravans, horse oats and box trailers which havethe axle group in the centre of the load space are notpermitted to have loads, including spare wheels andbicycles overhanging the rear of the trailer.

All loads must be correctly secured to trailers.

Loads should be kept as low as possible and

positioned as close to the axle as possible withabout 60 per cent of the total mass forward of thecentre axle(s).

About 10 per cent of the total mass of the trailer plusload should be supported by the tow vehicle throughthe coupling so the trailer drawbar is level or slightly

nose down. To avoid trailer sway, do not concentrate the loads

mass towards the end of the trailer.


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Drive to the conditions

Queensland may be known as the sunshine state,but our weather can change dramatically, evenwithin the space of a short drive. Be prepared fordierent road conditions, particularly wet weather.

Wet conditionsWhen driving in wet weather, you should alwaysremember that the signed speed limit is the maximumsafe speed in ideal driving conditions, so you may needto reduce your speed in wet weather.


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Remember to:

keep your windscreen and lights clean

turn your headlights on when there is reduced visibilityand use low beam. In foggy or misty conditions, its

actually easier to see on low beam use your air-conditioner or demister to keep the

windscreen clear of condensation

avoid sudden braking, accelerating or turningmanoeuvres to reduce chances of skidding

make the best use of road line markings and post

mounted road signs to help position your vehiclecorrectly on the road

double your following distance to allow for greaterreaction and stopping time

if youre driving on outback or remote roads, try tokeep one wheel on the bitumen due to the unstable

nature of the road edges.Remember, its an oence to drive with your fog lights onin clear weather (day or night) and you risk being ned.

Driving through water

After heavy rain, sometimes roads can be closed. Youshould always obey signs closing roads to trac for yourown safety. If the road is ooded, do not attempt to cross.Wait until the level drops or use an alternative route.The force of ood water could sweep your vehicle away.Ignoring road signs may not only endanger lives, but youcould nd yourself facing a substantial ne.

If you do drive through water, dry the brakes out bydriving slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for ashort distance.


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Driving on country and remote roadsWhen driving in the country:

Watch out for wildlife and livestock on roads, roadsidesand near water crossings particularly at sunrise andafter sunset.

Watch out for tractors towing farm machinery,especially during harvest times.

Dont stop on or near bridges, oodways or on narrowsections of roadway.

Dont pull out onto the road when you see anothervehicle approaching, wait until it has passed.

Take note of any yellow warning signs and speed limitadvisory signs, and adjust your speed appropriately,well before reaching the turn or hazard.

Always slow down when approaching railway level

crossings to check for trains (as many rural levelcrossings do not have boom gates).

Driving on unsealed roadsWhen driving on unsealed roads, you should be wary of:

Varying surfaces such as gravel, sand or dirt becauseyour vehicles tyres can lose traction. On these surfaces,decrease your speed and increase your followingdistance behind the vehicle in front.

Dust clouds, which can aect your ability to see clearly.

Wet conditions, which can cause the road to becomemuddy, slippery and boggy.


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Driving on sandDriving on sand is dierent to driving on hard surfaces.

You need to be familiar with sand-driving techniques andhow 4WDs handle on sand.

Here are a few tips for driving safely:

Normal road rules apply on beaches and inland tracks.Obey speed limits, wear seatbelts, never sit outsidethe moving vehicle, and remember beach trac istwo-way, so always keep left.

Load your vehicle correctly with the heaviest itemsstored low. Vehicles with too much stored on roofracks can overturn.

On soft sand and inland tracks, engage 4WD lockinghubs, select low gears if it gets really soft, avoid sharpturns and sudden braking. You may also want to reduceyour tyre pressure to maintain traction, dont forget to

re-inate to resume speed on hard surfaces.

Use well-established tracks to reach the beach. Neverpark or drive across sand dunes this is illegal.

Travel at low-tide on the beach or within two hourseither side of low tide. Avoid salt water as you mayget stuck, and stay on the harder sand between

the waterline and the high tide mark to get thermest surface.

Avoid rocks, pools, washouts, landing aircraft, andwatch out for pedestrians, wildlife and other vehicles.

Vehicle permits are required on most beaches. Visit theDepartment of Environment and Resource Management

for more information on permits and beach driving tipsand restrictions at www.derm.qld.gov.au.

Always carry a rst-aid kit as medical assistance maybe hours away in remote areas and remember in anemergency dial 000.

Please note: Laws apply to 4WD hire vehicles on FraserIsland, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au (search Fraser Island).


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Intelligent Transport Systems

Making travel smarterTravel and trac information is broadcast through

the Australian Trac Network, available on the trachotline by phoning 13 19 40 and at www.131940.com.au.Information is also passed on to motorists via electronicvariable message signs.

Road condition reporting serviceInformation on road conditions across the state isavailable on the RACQ website www.racq.com.au or byphoning 1300 130 595. This service reports on ood androad conditions, mainly in Queenslands rural areas.


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Free-ow tollingFree-ow tolling is currently used on the Gateway andLogan motorways and on the CLEM7 tunnel. It will also beused on the Hale Street Link and the Airport Link, when

they are operational. This system replaces cash toll boothswith a no-stopping tolling system to ease congestion andimprove travel times and motorists safety.

On these motorways tolls are automatically calculated asyou pass under a tolling point. Tolls are deducted or billedelectronically using:

an electronic tag in your vehicle

video tolling technology where an image of yourregistration plate number is captured.

Before you travel on tollways in Queensland it is best topurchase an appropriate tolling product from a tollingoperator. Tags can be used on any tollway in Queensland

and throughout Australia.

If you use a tollway and do not have a tag or pre-paid tollproduct, contact the relevant toll road operator within thespecied period of time (usually within 48 72 hours) toarrange payment. The details of who to contact and whenwill be on road signage near the tolling point.

If you do not arrange payment within these timeframes,the registered owner of the vehicle will be sent aninvoice for the toll, plus a processing charge from thetoll road operator.

Driving in tunnelsWith the introduction of Brisbanes rst cross river tunnel,the CLEM7, drivers should familiarise themselves with howto drive safely in tunnel environments by visiting the CLEM7website www.clem7.com.au or www.tmr.qld.gov.au.

Key things to remember:

Switch on your headlights.

Turn on your radio and listen for any announcements.

Follow signage and obey speed limits.

Avoid unnecessary lane changes or overtaking.


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Share the road.It takes two to tango.

Sharing with bicyclesCyclists are road users too. They share the same rightsas other vehicles and deserve the same respect andcourtesy. Cyclists must also obey the road rules like othervehicles. Motorists should use common sense whensharing the road with cyclists.

Remember, every person riding a bicycle equalsone less car on the road. That means less tracand pollution.

Give way to cyclists at intersections, just as youwould give way to a car.

Cyclists can legally ride on any part of a marked lane

leave them enough room and only overtake when youcan do so safely.

Two cyclists are legally allowed to ride beside eachother on the road.

Leave a safe distance between your vehicle and acyclist when following, passing or overtaking.

If there is a bicycle storage area (a section on the roadusually painted green with a white bicycle symbol)at a set of trac lights, cyclists are allowed to waitinside the storage area, in front of vehicles stopped atthe intersection.


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Sharing with heavy vehicles When you overtake a truck, dont cut in front of it and

limit its braking space trucks need extra room tocorner and brake.

If a vehicle displays a DO NOT OVERTAKE TURNINGVEHICLE sign it is legally allowed to take up more than

one lane to turn.

If you cannot see the driver in a large vehicles sidemirrors, the driver may not be able to see you.

Recognise that large vehicles accelerate and brakeslowly and make allowances for this.

When a large vehicle is turning, keep back from theintersection as the vehicle will require more road spaceto make the turn.

Be considerate of heavy vehicles and share the road.


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Dont tangle with a road trainThese heavyweights can be up to 55 metres long (thelength of ten cars). When overtaking a road train, expectit to stay on the bitumen and be prepared for it to sway

from side to side. Motorists can share the road safely withroad trains by following these simple rules:

If there is an oncoming road train, slow down, pull overonto the shoulder of the road and stop, if necessary, toallow it to pass safely.

When overtaking a road train ash your lights to warn

the driver that you plan to overtake, allow at least onekilometre of clear road ahead, and beware of soft roadshoulders, guide posts and wildlife.

Sharing with pedestriansIts important to always be aware of pedestrians andshare the road safely.

Allow people with a disability or older pedestrianslonger to cross the road.

Lower your speed at night and be alert for peoplesuddenly walking out on the road, especially in areas

where alcohol might be served. Take care driving in areas where there are children,

especially near schools and playgrounds. Watchout for children running out onto the road. Alwaysstick to the speed limit around schools and stop atschool crossings.


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Sharing with motorcycles

If youre a motorist, watch out for motorcyclists.On average, one in ve Queensland road fatalitiesare motorcyclists.

Motorcyclists are 30 times more likely to be killed orseriously injured in a crash than other drivers.

You can help look out for motorcyclists by following

a few simple tips:

watch for motorcycles when turning or at intersections

make eye contact or acknowledge riders so they knowthey have been seen

give motorcyclists enough room to manoeuvre

use your mirrors and look ahead to make sure blindspots are clear when changing lanes

check over your shoulder when you change lanes orturn and indicate well in advance

remember if youre towing trailers or caravans youneed to allow more room when changing lanes.

AnimalsDont swerve to avoid an animal on the road, as yourvehicle may roll. Gently brake and slow down. Beep yourhorn to alert the animal.

If you come across cattle and sheep on the road, stop andbe patient. The animal may stop in the middle of the roadto watch you approach perhaps beep your horn and theanimal should soon move on.


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Jet Rowland


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Your tness to driveDriving a motor vehicle is a complex taskrequiring perception, good judgement, adequate

responsiveness and reasonable physical capability.For your safety and the safety of others, you shouldonly drive when you are medically t to do so.

A range of medical conditions (mental and physical) mayadversely aect your ability to drive safely, and couldresult in a crash causing death or injury. Follow your

doctors advice and know your legal responsibilitiesbefore you drive on Queensland roads.

Under Jets Law* you must promptly tell the Department ofTransport and Main Roads of any long-term or permanentmedical condition that is likely to adversely aect yourability to drive safely. You must tell the department as

soon as a condition develops or if there is a long-termincrease or aggravation to an existing condition. Youcannot wait until you renew your licence.

Medical conditions that are likely to aect your drivingability include (but are not limited to) diabetes, epilepsy,eye problems, hearing problems, heart disease,

psychiatric disorders, sleep disorders and stroke. If youthink you may have a condition that could aect yourability to drive safely, as your rst step, consult yourhealth professional(s).

The department can amend, suspend or cancel driverlicences after receiving information about a drivers

medical tness, or may require drivers to carry a currentmedical certicate and drive in accordance with anyconditions stated.

For more information, or to obtain medical conditionreporting forms visit your nearest Department of Transportand Main Roads customer service centre (or driver licenceissuing centre) or call the department on 13 23 80, or visitwww.transport.qld.gov.au/medicalconditions.

*Jets Law has been named in honour of Jet Rowland; a22 month old boy who tragically died after a driver withepilepsy had a seizure and crashed into the car that Jetand his family were travelling in.


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A road rules refresher course

The basic rules always apply you must give way to the right at unsigned

cross intersections

you must abide by trac signs, lightsand road markings

you must obey the speed limit

a stop sign means that all wheels of your vehiclemust come to a complete halt.

Changing directionIf you are going to move from a stationary position on theside of a road, you must indicate for at least ve secondsbefore moving. If youre turning, or changing lanes, youmust indicate long enough to give sucient warning toother drivers and road users.

Keep leftWhen the speed limit is 90km/h or more on multi-laneroads you must not drive in the right hand lane unlessyou are:

overtaking

turning right

making a U-turn

avoiding an obstacle

driving in congested trac.


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Childrens crossingsChildrens crossings are signed with orange ags andare usually located near schools. You must stop whenpedestrians are on the crossing and also when they are

entering the crossing. You must also drive at a speed thatallows you to stop safely at crossings. It is important to beaware of pedestrians approaching all crossings.

MergingWhere two unmarked lanes of trac merge into one, youmust give way to a vehicle if any part of the vehicle is infront of you.

This rule doesnt apply where there are marked lanes onthe road. In this situation you must obey the rules aboutchanging lanes, giving way to other motorists if you wantto move into the lane occupied by another vehicle.

You must always give sucient warning with your indicatorsto let other road users know what you intend to do.

U-turns

At trac lights

You are not allowed to make a U-turn at trac lightsunless there is a sign stating U-TURNS PERMITTED.

Not at trac lights(For example, at a break in the centre island.)

You must not do a U-turn: across a single or double continuous centre-line or

a continuous centre line to the left of a broken line

where there is a sign stating NO U-TURN.

If a U-turn is permitted, you can then make the turn when:

you have a clear view of approaching trac

you can safely make the turn without obstructingthe free ow of trac.

When you are doing a U-turn, you must give way to allother vehicles and pedestrians even if other vehicles arefacing a give way or stop sign.


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RoundaboutsIt is important to be in the correct lane at multi-laneroundabouts. Signs, lane markings and arrows helpyou position your vehicle correctly and guide you in the

direction you want to go.Unless arrows on the road indicate otherwise, rememberthis rule:

to turn left, use left lane

to turn right use right lane

to go straight ahead use either lane.

Left turn

1. Position your vehicle in theleft lane well in advance,unless arrows or signs on

the road indicate otherwise.2. Use your left indicator when

you enter the roundabout.

3. Give way to all vehiclesalready on the roundabout.

4. Remain in the left lane as you complete your turn.

5. Continue to use your left indicator as you exitthe roundabout.

6. Stop indicating once you have exited the roundabout.


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Right or U-turns

1. Position your vehicle in theright lane well in advance,unless arrows on the road or

signs indicate otherwise.2. Use your right indicator when

you enter the roundabout.

3. Give way to all vehiclesalready on the roundabout.

4. Before exiting use your left indicator and follow the

exit lane marking. Stop indicating once you have exitedthe roundabout. Note: Do not turn right from the leftlane unless arrows on the road indicate otherwise.

Straight ahead

1. Position your vehicle in either

lane well in advance, unlessarrows on the road or signsindicate otherwise.

2. Do not use your indicatoruntil ready to exit.

3. Give way to all vehicles

already on the roundabout.4. Before exiting use your

left indicator and follow the exit lane marking. Stopindicating once you have exited the roundabout. Note:Watch for vehicles exiting from the right lane.

Yellow edge lines You must not stop or park on the side of a road with

a continuous yellow edge line.

For more road rule information, visitwww.transport.qld.gov.au/roadrules.

Refresher videos are also available in the Be Safe sectionof the Here for Life website (www.hereforlife.qld.gov.au).


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Want to know more?For more information, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au, visityour nearest Transport and Main Roads customer servicecentre or call the department on 13 23 80*.

Drugs and driving

Never drive when youve consumed recreational drugs.For condential help or information, contact the Alcoholand Drug Information Service (07) 3837 5989 (all hours)or 1800 177 833 (toll free).

Road rules

A comprehensive guide to road rules can be foundin Your keys to driving in Queenslandavailable frommost newsagents and Transport and Main Roadscustomer service centres. It is also available online

at www.tmr.qld.gov.au.Refresher videos can be viewed onwww.hereforlife.qld.gov.au.

Young drivers

For more information, visit

www.transport.qld.gov.au/youngdrivers.

Motorcycle safety

Information and advice for new and experienced riderson choosing the right motorcycle and appropriatesafety gear, conducting pre-ride checks, and safe

actions in emergency situations is available atwww.motorcyclesafety.qld.gov.au.

* Operates Monday to Friday 8am5pm EST (GMT +10) excludingpublic holidays. Local call charge in Australia. Higher rates applyfrom mobile phones and payphones. For international callers

phone +61 7 3834 2011 this service operates Monday to Friday8.30am5pm EST (GMT +10) excluding public holidays.


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Translating and interpreting service


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Information in this guide is current as at March 2010. For the latest roadrules please refer to the Department of Transport and Main Roads websiteat www.transport.qld.gov.au/roadrules .

PDF Rs the Essential Driving Companion Jun10 Complete

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Transcript of PDF Rs the Essential Driving Companion Jun10 Complete