The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has joined forces with a variety of Australian celebrities for its “We ALL Need Space” campaign, to promote safely sharing the road with heavy vehicles this holiday season.
The campaign focuses on “simple but vital” safety tips, including discouraging motorists from overtaking trucks and urging light vehicle drivers to remember that trucks have much larger blind spots and need more space to stop.
Awareness of caravan etiquette is also being promoted during the campaign.
A recent study conducted by the NHVR surveyed 1000 drivers across Australia and found that over half of motorists (51%) experience nervousness when driving near heavy vehicles.
The research revealed that while drivers believe they have some understanding of how to safely share the road with heavy vehicles, just 32% feel very knowledgeable about the rules.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM said it is clear that there are gaps in motorists’ knowledge and the “We ALL Need Space” campaign aims to encourage people to educate themselves so both motorists and truck drivers can reach their destination safely.
“During the festive season, we see an increase in road traffic and, unfortunately, accidents, so our We ALL Need Space campaign is our response, aiming to educate and remind everyone of the importance of sharing the road with heavy vehicles,” Petroccitto said.
“Our truck drivers are the real Santa Clauses of Australia, tirelessly working during the holidays to ensure our gifts are delivered and our supermarkets are stocked.
“It’s important to remember that roads are their workplace and to treat them with respect. They play a crucial role in our festive spirit and economy, so we must ensure their safety and ours.”
“We ALL Need Space” will feature across social media to increase public awareness about safe driving practices around heavy vehicles during the busy holiday travel period.
Big Australian names including comedian Jimmy Rees, ex rugby league player Sam Thaiday, country music artist James Blundell, Outback Truckers star Glenn Kendall and truck driver Casuarina Smith have all come on board to support the campaign.
NHVR acting executive director of corporate affairs Steve Smith said partnering with diverse and influential figures has been essential in amplifying the campaign’s reach and success.
“Their ability to engage with wide audiences across different sectors has brought great attention and support to our road safety message and we’re excited to continue this over the busy Christmas period,” Smith said.
“Through this campaign, we’re not just spreading a message; we’re building a community of informed and cautious drivers. Each of us plays a crucial role in making our roads safer.”
For more information on We All Need Space, visit weallneedspace.com.au.