Selfish WA drivers 'risking lives'
Selfish West Australian drivers are putting lives at risk, says the Road Safety Council.
Road Safety Council chairman Murray Lampard says some of WA's most selfish drivers are those that follow too closely, hog the outside lane and jump the queue during periods of heavy traffic.
It’s time motorists improving their attitude, sharing roads and being more tolerant.
“Some mums and dads dropping the kids off at school also qualify for this title, according to operational police officers," Professor Lampard said.
"Selfish, discourteous and risky behaviour on our roads has always existed but has become more widespread in recent years and is simply dangerous and unacceptable.”
His assessment came as the council started its public focus during November on courtesy and safe vehicles as a pre-cursor to road safety in general.
“I strongly believe that people need to have a more forgiving outlook, because that is part of the fabric of a safe and effective road system," he said.
"Most of all, people need to demonstrate a positive attitude when using WA roads."
The council is promoting courtesy during November, focusing especially on following distances and failing to keep left.
Professor Lampard said the simple "wave of thanks" was an indicator of other drivers showing consideration to each other on the roads.
"This acknowledgement used to be commonplace, but where has it gone? People used to wave a sign of thanks, yet it seems that some of us have become ill-mannered not to acknowledge courtesy when it is extended to us," he said.
The State Government continues to encourage the purchase of safer vehicles by increasing the awareness of car safety ratings in the public domain and vehicle safety features.
Professor Lampard urged drivers to “consult the stars” by researching vehicle safety ratings.
Some of the most affordable cars have a five-star rating.
