A new RAC survey of WA motorists has revealed some of the worst habits on our roads, with tailgating and poor merging topping the list.
The five worst behaviours, according to respondents, were:
- Tailgating
- Failing to merge correctly
- Not using indicators correctly
- Driving distracted
- Weaving in and out of traffic
Eighty seven per cent of drivers said they had experienced tailgating in the past 12 months, while one in two claimed other motorists do not know how to merge properly.
The survey also revealed that in the past 12 months, 69 per cent of respondents had been rudely gestured at by other motorists, 40 per cent had been yelled at or confronted, and one in three had been involved in a near-miss caused by road rage.
RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said WA motorists must do their part to keep our roads safe.
“Everyone gets frustrated on the roads at times but keeping calm behind the wheel is one of the most important ways to prevent the unnecessary crashes that occur every day,” Mr Golsby said.
“Tailgating is incredibly dangerous and can turn minor frustrations into serious situations that greatly increase the risk of an incident occurring.”
“Correct merging technique, such as indicating your intentions, ensures other drivers are aware of your movements and allows for a smoother flow of traffic.”
Eighty eight per cent of respondents rated their own driving as good or very good but only 26 per cent said the same of other motorists.
“It appears many people rate their own driving skills much higher than those around them, which may be contributing to a sense of complacency on our roads,” Mr Golsby said.
“With WA on track to record one of the worst levels of road trauma in over a decade it has never been more important to remember the responsibility we all have when we get behind the wheel.”
ENDS
Media contact: Lauren Cherry, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
