Who knows the roads better than those carrying a full load of experience?
That's what the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is focused on as part of its ongoing 'We All Need Space' road safety campaign.
'A Truckie Knows' is the latest instalment of the campaign, with truck drivers stepping into the spotlight to share their knowledge and experience of making Australia's roads a safer place.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Honourable Brent Mickelberg MP, said the government was committed to ensuring safety was a priority for all drivers.
"One of the most important elements of road safety is giving every single vehicle the space it needs," Mr Mickelberg said.
"As this campaign calls out, we can all influence the way we interact with other road users."
NHVR Executive Director Michelle Tayler said as part of 'A Truckie Knows', the NHVR was reminding all road users about the importance of respect for other drivers, as well as the risks of speed and tailgating.
"There are truck drivers on Australia's roads who have seen first-hand the full spectrum of driver behaviour," Ms Tayler said.
"When you're covering hundreds of thousands of kilometres of road, you learn important lessons like respect being a two-way street, leaving space for other drivers to make mistakes and that speeding doesn't get you there faster.
"A Truckie Knows is about highlighting our truck drivers and the critical job they do, and asking them to share this wisdom with their peers."
In a recent survey conducted by the NHVR, 64 per cent of light vehicle drivers reported tailgating as the most common aggressive driving behaviour experienced from heavy vehicles.
The same survey also revealed nearly 9 in 10 truck drivers reported experiencing a dangerous situation with a light vehicle over a four-week period.
Ms Tayler said it was important for the NHVR to highlight safety information for both heavy and light vehicle drivers, and for all road users to show respect behind the wheel.
"Our findings showed only 9 per cent of truck drivers reported feeling the general public respects their profession," she said.
"Truck drivers generally have to deal with inexperienced drivers, long hours and tight deadlines, so there are frustrations that could impact behaviour on the roads.
"We need all drivers to give one another space and make road safety the highest priority."
Wemyss Transport's Robert Topp, who appears in the campaign, said he was proud to voice his experiences from over two decades of driving and join the NHVR in calling on all drivers to share the road safely.
"Being a truck driver isn't just a job, it's a lifestyle," Mr Topp said.
"We all know in theory how to make the roads as safe as possible, but this campaign is about making sure safe driving behaviour is always front of mind and reinforcing the message of respect.
"A truckie knows these things, and we can all help to drive the message home."
'We All Need Space' has previously provided tips for light vehicle drivers to drive safer around heavy vehicles, such as keeping out of a truck's blind spots and not overtaking a turning truck.
