It's World Post Day and Australia Post is urging all Aussies to keep an eye out for Posties, with data released today showing a 30% increase in Posties injured by a third-party on the road.
In the past financial year, 86 Posties sustained injuries as a result of third-party traffic accidents, including broken limbs, concussions, and lacerations with many resulting in hospital stays, time off work and psychological trauma. Across the country, the most common third-party accident involving Posties was drivers not looking when using or speeding through roundabouts.
To raise awareness in the community, Australia Post is also urging Governments to allow Australia Post to fit and use flashing lights on eDVs and motorcycles to improve visibility and prompt road users to adjust their behaviour to avoid a crash.
Australia Post General Manager Safety Rod Maule said even one vehicle related incident is too many and to report more accidents than last year is extremely concerning.
"Too many Posties are sustaining injuries from being knocked off their vehicle or swerving off the road to avoid more serious incidents from occurring.
"Australia Post has implemented a number of safety measures, including installing telematics (video and data) across most of our fleet of electric delivery vehicles, eDVs, motorcycles, vans, and trucks, but it isn't just up to us - we are asking all drivers to be alert and keep an eye out for our Posties.
"We're also asking Governments to consider flashing lights on eDVs and motorcycles, because if they're working to protect the nation's garbos and streetsweepers, flashing lights are worth trialling for our Posties.
"On World Post Day, we're calling for all Aussie drivers to be alert and respectful of their local Postie, and allow them to deliver for their communities safely, so they can return home to their families at the end of every day."
Apart from incidents at roundabouts, other third-party accidents involving Posties included drivers:
- Failing to stop at a Stop sign or Give Way sign
- Driving distracted by a mobile phone
- Not leaving enough space to stop safely
"We'd like to remind drivers that our Posties stop frequently and often travel at lower speeds than other vehicles on the road. They can sometimes be easily missed since some vehicles like our eDVs, and motorcycles are smaller than others. Please keep an eye out for the hi-vis and stay alert on the roads so we can continue to deliver for all Australians," Mr. Maule continued.
Tips for road safety:
- Put your mobile phone out of reach when driving.
- Slow down when approaching roundabouts.
- Use your mirrors and check your blind spots before turning or changing lanes.
- When reversing out of your driveway, toot your horn and move slowly.
- Keep your distance. Drive far enough behind the vehicle in front of you so you can stop safely.
- Do not drive when drowsy.
- Do not drive under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
