Parents and guardians are being reminded to set a good example behind the wheel, with an RAC survey revealing our most inexperienced drivers are witnessing some alarming behaviours.
More than 500 young drivers (aged 17 to 21) participated in RAC’s Young Driver Survey, revealing they have seen their parents or guardians:
- Speed (69%)
- Express anger at other road users (51%)
- Break road rules (42%)
- Use their mobile phone while driving (30%)
- Drive through a red light (11%)
- Drive while they suspected they were over the blood alcohol limit (11%)
RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said parents and guardians play a huge role in helping young drivers develop safe habits.
"Long before a teenager gets behind the wheel, they’ve been a passenger thousands of times and have seen first-hand how their parents and guardians behave while driving,” Mr Golsby said.
"Our survey shows some concerning behaviours are being witnessed by young drivers, with parents speeding, expressing anger at other road users and breaking road rules.
"Sadly, young drivers continue to be overrepresented in road trauma statistics in WA.
"It’s crucial to set a good example to kids from an early age, as cementing safe driving behaviours begins long before they get their L plates.”
RAC’s Young Driver Survey also revealed 21 per cent of respondents believed their likelihood of being involved in a crash was low, but nearly double that had been involved in a crash as a driver.
"Driving is a privilege, and there are real and tragic consequences of making the wrong decisions behind the wheel,” Mr Golsby said.
"As a parent or guardian, knowing you’ve done all you can to prepare your child for a safe journey will also help to put your mind at ease.”
ENDS
Media contact: Laura Gardiner, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
