A survey of RAC Roadside Assistance Patrols has revealed some concerning trends on WA roads, with distracted driving, congestion and driver frustration highlighted as key issues.
Over the last two years, almost 90 per cent of patrols surveyed have seen an increase in distracted driving.
RAC Communications Manager Rhys Heron said distraction remains a major issue on WA roads.
“Whether it’s making a call, using an app or changing a song — anything that takes your attention off the road is putting yourself and others at risk,” Mr Heron said.
“It takes an average of five seconds to read a text, but just a split second for a life to be changed forever.”
According to RAC Patrols, congestion on our roads is only getting worse, with almost 90 per cent noticing an increase over the last two years. Results from the survey also reveal increases in driver frustration, broken road rules and a lack of etiquette.
“Many of our roads often struggle to cope with demand, which means motorists are spending more time in traffic and less time with their loved ones,” Mr Heron said.
“Congested roads can cause frustration behind the wheel, and this can lead to poor decision-making and more risk on our roads.
“There is simply no excuse for dangerous driving - you are in control of your actions, but not always the consequences.”
RAC Roadside Patrol Ray Farrugia said almost 85 per cent of RAC Patrols have experienced a near miss while on the job, himself included.
“There is no question that the roadside is a dangerous place to work, so we urge motorists to be extra careful, slow down and keep your distance when approaching an incident or breakdown,” Mr Farrugia said.
“We all have the right to feel safe on the roads, so look after yourself and your fellow road users by keeping calm, being considerate, and following the road rules.”
<ends>
Media contact: Mikayla Wearne, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
Key issues on WA roads according to RAC Roadside Assistance Patrols:
Congestion
- 87 per cent of patrols surveyed have noticed an increase over the past two years.
- 51 per cent of patrols surveyed say they regularly hear complaints about congestion.
Distracted driving
- 87 per cent of patrols surveyed have noticed an increase over the past two years.
- 48 per cent of patrols surveyed regularly hear complaints about the number of distracted drivers on WA roads.
Broken road rules
- 85 per cent of patrols surveyed have noticed an increase over the past two years.
- 38 per cent of patrols surveyed regularly hear complaints about drivers breaking road rules.
Driver frustration
- 85 per cent of patrols surveyed have noticed an increase over the past two years.
- 29 per cent of patrols surveyed regularly hear complaints about the number of frustrated drivers on WA roads.
Driver etiquette
- 71 per cent of patrols surveyed have noticed a decline over the past two years.
