Safe road use and night-time travel

Night-time inter-state road travel carries risks that daytime travel does not. These are the precautions that address them.

Before setting out

• Plan to arrive before nightfall wherever the schedule permits. This single decision removes most of the risk.
• Check lights, tyres, spare, jack and tools before departure, not at the roadside.
• Fuel for the journey plus a margin. Searching for fuel at night in an unfamiliar area is its own hazard.
• Tell someone your route and expected arrival, and let them know when you arrive.

On the road

Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight. Avoid stopping at unlit or isolated points. If you must rest, use a populated filling station or a recognised stop.

At checkpoints

Slow down, dip your headlights, and stop where directed. Keep your hands visible and your documents accessible. Remain in the vehicle unless asked to step out.

In the event of a breakdown

Make the vehicle visible from a distance before attempting anything else — hazard lights, and a warning triangle well back from the vehicle. Where it is safe to do so, wait away from the carriageway rather than beside the vehicle.