If you're planning a trip to Australia, many great destinations are only accessible by car, so you'll need to get used to some major differences if you plan to drive across the country. Before driving, one should always familiarize themselves with the traffic rules in Australia, which vary from state to state. No matter where you're going in the country, though, you'll have to get used to driving on the left side of the road. To know several other unique rules, Safety tips, Legalities, and recommendations for driving in Australia stay tuned with us. Find out Which are the Best 5 Car Insurance Companies in Australia?
1. Do I need an International Driver’s License to Drive in Australia?:
Yes. If you wish to drive in Australia, you must hold a valid international driving permit accompanied by the driver's license issued in the country you live in. Also, Read How Software Helps Fleet Management and GPS Tracking in Australia for Lone Workers?
2. Which Side of the Road do Australians drive on?
Australian people drive on the left side of two-way roads. You should always use pedestrian crossings where possible and remember to look right, then left, and then right again when you are walking across the street. Know What exactly is Weather? And How is it Different from Climate?
3. Can I Hire a Car in Australia?
Car rental can be extremely cost-effective when planning to travel around Australia by road. When renting a car in Australia, there are requirements that are common across the car rental industry, including holding a valid driver’s license, a credit card as a form of security, and a passport for ID. Read further about How Accurate is GPS Speed in a Vehicle Tracking System?
4. What is the Speed Limit in Australia?
Speed limits are strictly enforced in Australia. The speed limit is the maximum speed permitted on that road and you must not drive above the speed limit at any time. Some roads do not have visible speed limit signs, but speed limits still apply. You should be especially careful in residential areas and in school zones. Read further about What is Reckless Driving? Is it a Criminal Offense? (Simplified)
5. Rules on Drinking Alcohol and Driving?
Driving after taking drugs that affect your ability to drive is illegal and penalties are severe.
Australia has very serious penalties if you are caught doing so. In Australia, you are not permitted to drive a car if your blood alcohol level is 0.05 percent or higher.
6. Can I use my mobile phone while driving?
No, you are not permitted to use a handheld mobile phone when driving. This includes making or receiving calls, texting, playing games, or browsing the web. Explore the UK: Hitachi builds ‘Intelligent Decarbonization Solutions' for Fleet.
7. Are there Truck Stop or, Rest Areas on Australia’s Roads?
It is common to travel long distances in Australia, so you should plan your journey to include several rest breaks and to ensure you have enough petrol for your journey. Rest areas are located every 80-100 kilometers (49-62 miles) on main highways and roads for people to pull over and rest when needed. Explore more: What Exactly is Truck Stop? Everything You Need to Know
8. Is it Safe to Drive in Rural and Remote Areas?
Driving in rural and remote areas requires special driving skills and awareness of different road conditions. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and that it has been recently serviced. Always carry a spare tyre, tools, and extra water. If you are traveling to remote areas off major highways, make sure you have plenty of fuel as well as food and water. Here are the Top 6 Trends in Green Driving Habits for Your Fleet/vehicle
9. Road Conditions in Australia?
Australia is a land of extreme weather conditions where some parts of the country may be affected by floods, bushfires, or cyclones. You should always plan your trip in advance and check for local weather conditions in the area you are traveling to. You should not attempt to cross flooded roads as floodwaters often have strong currents, which can sweep your vehicle away.
You can contact the local State Emergency Service (SES) or phone 000 if you are in an emergency situation. Don't miss to read about Top 7 Essential Road Safety Rules for Drivers
10. Is there wildlife on the roads?
Watch out for wildlife on the road, such as kangaroos, emus, wombats, and koalas. Livestock such as cattle may also graze on the side of an unfenced road. You should always be traveling at a safe speed so if an animal does cross in front of you, you can further reduce your speed. Do not attempt to swerve your car violently or you can roll off the road. Find out the 15 most Spookiest & Abandoned American Ghost Towns
11. Emergency Road Services Number in Australia?
The number for emergency services in Australia is 000. They can connect you to the police, ambulance, and fire brigade. You should only contact 000 in an emergency.
Contact us for a quick demo of our Traxroot Vehicle Tracking System to understand how our software using GPS systems can protect you and your companies vehicles by providing details like distance traveled, live speed, driving patterns, generates fuel-saving reports, fuel slippage, and many other exciting features. Reduce your Insurance premiums with us in AUSTRALIA. Visit our FAQ page for some frequently asked questions on fleet management.