Comedians, athletes, holiday drivers and truck drivers – they all need space to keep you safe

Friday, 20 December 2024

This holiday season, share the gift of how to drive near trucks safely.

Comedian Jimmy Rees, ex rugby league player Sam Thaiday, South Australian truck driver Casuarina ‘CJ’ Smith and more Australian icons have partnered with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) to promote safely sharing the road with trucks.

Our top tips:

Be mindful of turning trucks

Trucks and other vehicles that are over 7.5 metres long and have a DO NOT OVERTAKE TURNING VEHICLE sign on the back are legally allowed to take up more than one lane to turn at corners, intersections and roundabouts.

Be aware of a truck’s blind spots

There are four blind spots to stay out of when driving near trucks and buses. They are:

  • immediately in front of the truck
  • directly behind the truck
  • beside the driver’s door
  • on the passenger’s side, from the door extending across three lanes along the length of the truck.

Overtake quickly and safely

If you need to overtake a truck, make sure you are far enough behind that the truck can see you. Indicate early and, when safe to do so, pass quickly without exceeding the speed limit or lingering in a blind spot. Remember, the truck has a blind spot in front so you need to leave extra space before you pull back in.

Follow directions from an oversize load’s escort

An oversize load will usually be accompanied by an escort. Slow down and follow their instructions to pass each other safely. If you have an ultra high frequency (UHF) radio, you can use Channel 40 to communicate with them.

Watch the video below to hear more tips and advice.

We All Need Space-These Holidays Play video

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) joined forces with Australian icons, including comedian Jimmy Rees, ex rugby league player Sam Thaiday and South Australian truck driver Casuarina ‘CJ’ Smith, for the ‘We ALL Need Space’ campaign to promote safely sharing the road with trucks.

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM said, "trucks play a crucial role in keeping Australia moving".

"Through our We ALL Need Space campaign we aim to educate and remind motorists how to share the roads with heavy vehicles to ensure everyone – including our nation’s truckies – get home safe."

Hear from other Australian icons at the We All Need Space website.

Have a safe and happy holiday season.