city Driving Quick Fact

City driving is dynamic, busy, and full of distractions, requiring drivers to stay alert to changing conditions such as school zones, construction, and congestion.

Speed significantly impacts pedestrian survival rates, with a 90% chance at 30 km/h, dropping to 60% at 40 km/h and just 10% at 50 km/h. Urban environments present risks due to frequent interactions with pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter users, while cognitive load increases from lights, noise, and distractions.

Studies show 20% of pedestrians in Melbourne’s CBD use smartphones while crossing, and wearing headphones slows response times by 4.2 times.

To drive safely, allow extra time for congestion, be mindful of A-pillar blind spots when turning, use the Dutch Reach to avoid ‘dooring’ cyclists, and minimise phone use, even for navigation.