The Question

Which driving behaviours are safe and which are unsafe? And what might be the common traits of safe drivers? This Q&A helps road users understand driving safely and factors that can help reduce the risk of crashes.

Why it matters

Knowing and understanding the behaviours and traits that are associated with safe drivers – and conversely unsafe drivers – can help people who drive for work, and their employers, implement measures that reduce the risk of road crashes and trauma.

4 Key Things to Know:

  • Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death at work, so reducing risk and frequency has multiple benefits.
  • Using mobile devices and driving while tired are the most common behaviours displayed by unsafe drivers.
  • Driver attitude impacts how safely or unsafely you drive – impatient and aggressive drivers, for example, are more likely to crash than patient drivers.
  • Mirror and blind spot checking and safe following distances are associated with safe drivers; safe drivers reduce vehicle wear and tear and emissions.
Key facts and statistics from this Q&A have also been drawn into the Infographic: Safe and Unsafe Drivers, highlighting the nature of safe and unsafe driver behaviours.

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