As students return to the classroom today, a new survey has revealed speeding, distracted driving and illegal parking are daily occurrences during the school drop-off and pick-up.
RAC’s Back to School survey has found nearly one in three parents or guardians witness speeding every day and 40 per cent see drivers using their phones behind the wheel at least once a week.
RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said the results are concerning, particularly as students head back to school today.
“The start of a new school term is an exciting, busy and chaotic time, especially during the drop-off and pick-up,” Mr Golsby said.
“Our survey shows speeding and distracted driving are occurring regularly, and nearly a third say they witness near misses involving other cars at least once a week.
“This is alarming as even at lower speeds a crash can be catastrophic for a pedestrian or cyclist.”
Research shows pedestrians and cyclists are twice as likely to be killed when hit by a car travelling at 50km/h, compared to 40km/h.
“Young students are some of the most vulnerable people on our roads, so it’s crucial to slow down, ditch the distractions and be extra alert, especially around school grounds, zebra crossings, intersections and congested areas,” Mr Golsby said.
“It’s also important to allow extra travel time to avoid feeling rushed or stressed behind the wheel.”
RAC’s Back to School survey also found nearly one in three respondents believe illegal parking and congestion around schools has worsened in the last 12 months.
“Parking was highlighted as another big issue during the school run, with 60 per cent saying drivers are stopping on roads, footpaths and verges every day.
“This not only makes it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians and cyclists, but also makes it hard for students to see oncoming traffic and cross the road safely.”
From today, 40km/h school zones are back in place between 7.30-9am and 2.30-4pm.
More than 400 RAC members participated in RAC's Back to School survey.
RAC’s tips for drivers:
- Leave a little earlier so you don’t feel rushed
- Keep a look out for pedestrians and cyclists, and be prepared to stop for them
- Slow down and be particularly alert outside schools, at pedestrian crossings, intersections and between cars or behind buses
- Minimise distractions while driving, and focus on the road
RAC’s tips for students and parents:
- Always check for oncoming traffic
- Walk straight and with care
- Cross at designated pedestrian crossings and try not to cross from between parked cars
- If you can’t cross at a designated crossing, take steps to ensure you can be seen by drivers
- Keep your eyes on the road instead of on your phone
- Be extra cautious walking with headphones which make it harder to hear traffic
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RAC Media Contact: Caitlin Barr, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
