As Australia marks National Road Safety Week, new studies are shedding light on concerning driving behaviours across the country, including in New South Wales. With around 1,200 road deaths and more than 40,000 serious injuries recorded annually nationwide, experts and authorities are calling for renewed efforts to address driver safety.

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Dangerous Driving Habits Widespread

A national survey by ROLLiN has found that 1 in 6 Australian drivers regularly engage in dangerous driving behaviours, with speeding the most common (41.2%). Disturbingly, nearly 1 in 5 (19.4%) drivers admitted to driving while extremely tired — a risk comparable to driving under the influence.

In New South Wales, drivers were among the most likely to admit to expressing road rage, such as yelling or honking at other motorists. They also ranked high for using social media while driving, highlighting a growing problem of in-car distraction.

Mobile Phone Use Remains a Major Issue

According to data from ROLLiN’ Insurance’s Safe’n’Save app, NSW drivers were joint second (alongside Queensland and the ACT) for the frequency of phone use while driving. Despite strict penalties in place, phone use remains one of the key behaviours contributing to road accidents.

The Safe’n’Save app assesses driving behaviour based on speed, phone use, braking, acceleration, and turning. Across Australia, the average safety score was 90/100. While NSW drivers performed better than average in some areas, phone use remains a consistent issue.

Wollongong Shines for Safer Driving

Not all the news is bad for New South Wales. Drivers in Wollongong were found to be the least likely in Australia to use their phone while driving, with an average of one offence every ten trips. This makes Wollongong one of the standout cities for responsible road behaviour.

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Road Safety Officials Urge Caution

The warning comes as police and safety advocates remind drivers that festival season and holiday periods typically coincide with higher road usage and increased risk. With fatalities already tracking high in several states, safe driving behaviour is being pushed as a top priority.

Summary of NSW Road Safety Findings:

  • NSW drivers frequently reported road rage and mobile phone use.
  • NSW ranked joint second nationally for mobile phone use while driving.
  • Wollongong ranked best for low phone usage behind the wheel.
  • Speeding, fatigue, and distraction remain top safety concerns.

Expert Comment

Adrian Bennett, General Manager of General Insurance at ROLLiN’, said:

“It’s concerning to learn that a majority of Australians admit to at least one dangerous driving habit. The most common behaviours — speeding, driving while drowsy, and mobile phone use — are not just risky, they could also impact the validity of your car insurance in the event of an accident.”

CarExplore's Thoughts

Whether it’s speeding, fatigue, or mobile use, NSW drivers are urged to take road safety seriously. With improved awareness and behaviour, the state can reduce fatalities and set a stronger example for others.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Data from iSelect and Rollin.

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