According to a recent survey of RAC Roadside Assistance Patrols, Western Australians are becoming increasingly distracted behind the wheel, with some going so far as to apply their make-up, read the newspaper and eat their breakfast.
The survey asked RAC Patrols a range of questions around driver behaviour, WA road conditions, experiences on the job, and what motorists vent about during a call-out.
RAC Senior Manager Communications Rhys Heron said RAC Patrols are the eyes and ears of our roads and provide unique insights into the habits of WA motorists.
“Over the past two years, 74 per cent of RAC Patrols surveyed have seen an increase in distracted driving, and 63 per cent have seen a rise in driver frustration,” Mr Heron said.
“Our Patrols are seeing drivers regularly sending messages and making calls behind the wheel.”
“Shockingly, some drivers are going even further - applying make-up, reading the newspaper, shaving or even having breakfast while driving.”
The survey results reveal 91 per cent of RAC Patrols have experienced a near-miss while attending a breakdown, with nearly 30 per cent having a close call every month.
Slow Down Move Over (SLOMO) law was introduced in 2018, requiring motorists passing stationary emergency-response vehicles, including RAC Patrols, to reduce their speed to 40km/h and, if possible, move to another lane.
“This is a timely reminder of the importance of SLOMO law and making sure we are looking out for each other, including those who call the roadside their place of work.”
The survey also asked RAC Patrols what West Aussies vent about, and unique situations they’ve witnessed when arriving at a call-out.
Eighty per cent of Patrols said the price of fuel is a common gripe among West Australians, up from 52 per cent in 2020.
RAC Roadside Patrol Mark Dring said 18 per cent of Patrols have driven an RAC member to an important event like their wedding or a job interview.
“We know breaking down in any circumstance is an inconvenience, let alone when West Aussies are making their way to a major event. Helping our members arrive safely at their destination is one of the perks of the job,” Mr Dring said.
“We all have the right to feel safe on the roads, so please look after yourself and your fellow road users by ditching the distractions, practising patience, and focusing on the drive.”
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Media contact: Olivia Palmer, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
FAST FACTS:
Of the RAC Roadside Patrols surveyed:
- 96% have rescued children and pets from locked vehicles
- 74% have seen an increase in distracted driving
- 63% have seen an increase in driver frustration
- 69% have seen an increase in congestion during peak times
- 78% have come to the aid of emergency services, getting ambulances back on their way
- 43% have seen a decline in road quality
FUN FACTS:
Of the RAC Roadside Patrols surveyed:
- 85% have helped a member who broke down on their way to an event
- 64% have arrived to a call-out to find the driver and passengers taking advantage of the breakdown by having a picnic, going to the beach, or taking a nap
- 46% have arrived to a breakdown with a couple in the middle of a heated argument
- 32% have assisted a celebrity or well-known public figure
- 18% have delivered an RAC member to an important event like their wedding or job interview
- 27% have arrived to a couple being passionate
