Victorians are being urged to drive safely over the following months, ensuring they are alert in wet and icy conditions as winter weather and shorter days set in across the state.
Roads and Road Safety Minister Ben Carroll said poor weather and hazardous conditions were known to increase the risk of crashes, and some motorists may be unaware of simple choices they could make to ensure all road users returned home safely at the end of each day.
Heavy rain and fog decrease visibility, with drivers, pedestrians and cyclists urged to make sure they can be seen by switching their lights on and only crossing roads at dedicated crossings or in well-lit areas.
“Every road user, including heavy vehicles, need more space to brake on wet and icy roads — drivers and riders should allow at least four seconds between them and the car in front and adjust their speed to the conditions,” he said.
Those planning a trip to the snow should check vehicle tyres, brakes and lights ahead of time, drive cautiously, carry and fit chains if needed and if they need to pull over, switch on the vehicle’s hazard lights.
If motorists do drive over slippery black ice, they should avoid sudden braking, instead keep the steering wheel as straight as possible and slow down gently by lifting their foot from the accelerator.
In Victoria, black ice generally forms around dawn and dusk or on sections of the roads that haven’t been exposed to direct sunlight after heavy dew or rain.
“Winter conditions have already arrived, and we can all help each other to get home safely at the end of the day by following simple road safety steps,” Mr Carroll said.
“Rain, shorter days and dark clothing bring with them road safety risks — regardless of how you’re travelling, cyclists and motorists should be vigilant, ensuring they are visible to others and plan ahead.”