Navigating a safer future
Driver education is crucial for young Tasmanians, writes General Manager of Advocacy and Government Relations Melinda Percival.
In Tasmania, the stark reality of road safety hits hard, especially among our youth. In the last six years, our community has been deeply affected by the loss of 44 young drivers, with more than 346 suffering serious injuries. This alarming statistic underscores a critical need: the importance of comprehensive driver education for young people.
This concern forms the backbone of RACT’s advocacy, particularly in our recent budget proposal to the Tasmanian Government. We’ve emphasised the necessity of expanding driver education programs, aiming to significantly reduce these tragic figures. Our focus isn’t just on quantity but also on reaching the heart of regional communities, where access to such programs can be a challenge.
Last year, I experienced the power of hands-on driver education at the RACT Distracted Driving Program with Glenora District High. This interactive program, a collaboration with local high schools, is a prime example of practical learning. In our dual-control vehicles, students face real-life scenarios: texting while navigating an obstacle course, experiencing vision impairment simulation with beer goggles, and coping with peer distractions in the backseat. The revelation for many was the danger posed by seemingly minor distractions.
The program’s impact has potential to go beyond the immediate reactions and instil a deep-seated understanding of and respect for road safety, vital for our young and often overconfident drivers. Inexperience, combined with the influence of peers, makes this demographic particularly vulnerable. It’s a harsh reality that we aim to change through proactive education and experiences.
Currently, the RACT Distracted Driving Program, supported by limited government funding, runs six sessions a year. Recognising the urgent need, RACT has funded additional programs. Our proposal to the Tasmanian Government seeks to further this commitment. The budget ask is not just a number – it’s a bid to safeguard our youth, to expand our reach and to make a lasting difference in the lives of young Tasmanians and their families.
Driving back from the program, a text notification on my phone became a poignant reminder of the day’s lessons. The urge to check was there, but it also reinforced the importance of the program, not just for young drivers but for all of us.
You can learn more about our Distracted Driving progam and Ready for the Road initiatives by visiting our Young Drivers page . By supporting these programs, we’re not just teaching driving – we’re fostering a culture of safety and responsibility on the roads, a crucial step towards a safer future for Tasmania’s youth.
RACT’s top tips when teaching your kids how to drive
Teach awareness of surroundings and to always be prepared to stop. This will help them to identify risks on the road quickly and increase their ability to prevent or avoid a crash.
Be a good role model. The way you drive and behave behind the wheel will influence your learner driver.
When getting professional driving lessons, be included in the lesson by riding along in the backseat. You’ll pick up information about the road rules and tips on how to verbally help your learner through tricky driving situations.
Before getting on the road with your learner driver, read the road rule book to ensure you’re teaching them correctly.