Caravan and motorhome drivers urged to respect truckie rest areas

Following a recent survey by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), caravan and motorhome drivers are being urged to show more consideration when sharing the road with heavy vehicles. According to the survey results, 60% of caravanners admitted to parking in a truck-specific rest area, and 22% are doing it regularly.

Sal Petrocitto, NHVR CEO, said it was important to understand that trucks need specific rest areas to manage their rest requirements. “While 66% of Australians surveyed are currently aware that they shouldn’t use these truck rest spaces, they don’t understand the implications or the why – and the consequences can be devastating,” he said. 

Australian Trucking Association (ATA) CEO Mathew Munro said, “Fatigue is one of the most serious factors affecting safety and vehicle crashes on our roads. Truck drivers meticulously plan routes to ensure they can adhere to rest schedules, facing heavy penalities for non-compliance.”

“Nationwide, there is a chronic shortage of dedicated truck rest areas, and this problem is made worse when caravans fill these spaces. We need greater awareness among caravanners about the seriousness of this issue,” Mathew said.

The survey also indicated that only half of RVers were aware that they should and can use their UHF radio to communicate with truckies. Using a UHF radio, if available, is vital for communicating with heavy vehicle drivers to let them know you are going to overtake them, or so they can let you know when they’re going to overtake.

Pssst: With the help of Jimmy Rees (or Jimmy Giggle for the parents of toddlers out there), The NHVR created a funny campaign last year to help get the message out. Check it out below:

For more information, visit www.nhvr.gov.au/weallneedspace