Are You Roadworthy, too?

We’re all familiar with the risks of driving a vehicle that’s not safe: bald tyres, broken headlights, faulty brakes, steering problems. Luckily, these are the kinds of things that are regularly checked and fixed (or prevented) when we take our vehicle in for a service. 

What we check is: is the vehicle roadworthy? Because we understand a vehicle in good condition reduces the risk of being involved in a crash.

So if we make sure the vehicle is safe to drive, why don’t we check on ourselves as well? 

How often do you as a driver, the person operating that roadworthy equipment, check to make sure you’re also fit to be on the road? Even if we start the trip ‘roadworthy’, that can change during our drive, influenced by a multitude of factors. 

Opting for unhealthy, quick snacks because you’re short on time can impact how you drive. Not drinking enough water and dehydration can cause mistakes behind the wheel. Driving for long periods without a break or receiving an upsetting phone call (hands-free of course) during your journey may mean your mind isn’t 100% on the task at hand.

There are any number of factors that feed into your emotional, mental and physical state and impact how ‘roadworthy’ you are behind the wheel.

Being fit to drive isn’t just an annual health check because the law says so. It is something to check every day, every trip. If we want our vehicle to be safe to drive, we should be taking the same time and caution with ourselves, and checking if we’re also roadworthy.

A simple self-check can be a life changing tool to maximise our safety, not to mention the safety of those we share the vehicle and the road with.

This is why NRSPP’s organisational campaign for 2024 asks everyone to take a few seconds and check on themselves.

Ask yourself: are you roadworthy? If you’re a passenger, check in with the driver. Mates, family, and managers should be asking the same question to their friend, loved one, or colleague. 

Here’s some suggestions for a personal roadworthy checklist:

• Check your diet and hydration
• Ensure you’ve moved and stretched your body
• Consider your mental headspace
• Do you feel prepared for the journey ahead?

For more tips and further information, or to download campaign resources, click here.