An Easy Guide To Understanding The Rules Of The Road
Road rules can be overwhelming, but don’t worry – we’re here to help! The goal is to present you with a basic overview of the most important road rules and provide links to more detailed information for those interested. Whether you’re a new driver or just looking to brush up on your knowledge, this guide will answer all of your questions and more.
1. Paying Attention To Signs
First, make sure you are familiar with the basic road signs. These will be used to indicate what type of road rules apply in a given situation or area (e.g. school zone). Make sure you know all the standard yellow diamond-shaped signs and their uses – particularly those relating to emergency vehicles and one-way streets. Signs are there to prevent accidents, and paying attention to them is required. If you do get into a car or motorcycle crash, you will have to know how to deal with handling motor vehicle accident claims and talk to an attorney. In Australia, it is also generally required to drive on the left side of the road unless overtaking another vehicle or driving on a one-way street. To safely overtake another vehicle, there must be a significant gap between your car and theirs as well as an unobstructed lane for your vehicle on the right side of their car. If there is not
2. Turning & Signals
Turning on the road is easy, but knowing when you need to indicate might not be. Luckily there are only really two main rules – turn before you get into the lane if possible (i.e. if the lane lines are broken) and always signal for at least three seconds before turning or changing lanes. It’s also important to understand that traffic signs override these signals – e.g., you still must signal even if it’s prohibited by a sign or road marking.
3. Minimum Speeds
Australian road rules state that you must drive at a speed that’s safe for the conditions. In other words, you could get fined if your car creates a hazard for other drivers, regardless of how fast or slow you’re going. This means it is important to understand speed signs and their meanings – in particular, what the various numbers mean in terms of distance/time and when they take effect, e.g., whether they apply during peak hours only, etc.
4. Road Rules For Cyclists & Pedestrians
Ride defensively when cycling on public roads by assuming others cannot see you and being prepared to take evasive action if required. While helmets are not compulsory in Australia unless under 18 years old, wearing one is often the safest option to avoid serious injury if you are struck by a vehicle. Watch out also for pedestrians – never assume they will always cross at pedestrian crossings and be mindful that not all footpaths have sidewalks. Make sure your bike is well equipped with reflectors – it may save your life!
5. Basic Road Rules
This section covers the three golden rules of driving: buckle up, don’t drink & drive, and don’t speed/race/maneuver aggressively. These are considered illegal under Australian road laws which can result in fines or even termination of your license (in severe cases). Be mindful of where you park your car – e.g., make sure it’s clear of intersections and other hazards like trees, telephone poles, and fire hydrants. And also, don’t leave your car unlocked in isolated areas – you don’t want to be responsible for any damage or vandalism made by strangers!
6. How To Handle Your Car In Emergencies
This is a really important section because you could find yourself in an emergency and not know what to do. For example, if your brakes fail while going downhill or you lose control on a wet or icy road, it’s crucial to remain calm and slow down gradually. While turning the steering wheel sharply will likely cause the car to skid, doing small changes in movement will help prevent this from happening (e.g., small turn left = sharp turn right). Sometimes it may be necessary to turn into the skid (e.g., if you’re losing control very quickly), but make sure there isn’t anything directly behind you before trying! And of course, use your hazard lights and pull off the road if you see an emergency vehicle approaching (or any other vehicle in trouble).
Before learning about road rules, it’s important to keep in mind why they exist in the first place. Many of these rules are designed with safety in mind. Be sure to pay attention to signs on the road, indicate when required, know the minimum speeds you should travel at depending on road conditions, keep your bike well equipped with reflectors, buckle up for safety reasons, don’t drink & drive, or race/maneuver aggressively on the roads under any circumstances. Ensure that you park your car safely and legally.