RAC’s Community Education team will be delivering a potentially lifesaving, hands‐on vehicle safety workshop to students from St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School next week.
RAC Communications Manager, Rhys Heron, said driving a safe vehicle was a critical element in reducing fatalities on WA roads.
“Being in a top safety rated vehicle can significantly reduce the chance of death or serious injury in the event of a crash,” Mr Heron said.
“This is especially important for young drivers who are some of the most vulnerable people on our roads.”
RAC’s 2017 Young Driver Survey found less than half of respondents thought it essential to consider the safety rating when purchasing a car, with over half not knowing the rating of their current vehicle.
“These results are very concerning and show the need for increased education around buying and maintaining safe vehicles,” Mr Heron said.
“We want to ensure future generations of drivers have a good understanding of every component of road safety, so they can be best protected.”
During the workshop, students will be taught about ANCAP ratings, vehicle safety checks and how to research safe new and used cars. They will also perform basic maintenance and safety inspection checks on a physical vehicle.
St Mary’s Head of Vocational Education, Pamela Underwood said it was easy to get caught up in the excitement of purchasing a fist car and forget the safety component.
“RAC’s workshop has been most valuable for our Year 12 students as it helps educate them on safety features and ANCAP ratings, allowing them to look for a vehicle that meets the necessary safety requirements.”
In addition to the workshop, RAC also suggests students take advantage of the keys2drive program which gives learner drivers a free driving lesson with an accredited instructor.
For more information about RAC Community Education
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Media Contact: Mikayla Wearne ‐ 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
