Spare a thought for the RAC patrols next time you break down and call them out. A recent survey of RAC patrol callouts revealed that distraction is a serious threat to road safety. However, some are the findings are not so serious.
Survey of RAC patrols
The survey of RAC patrols asked about their experiences on the job, as well as driver behaviour and what motorists say or do on a callout.
Unfortunately, three quarters of RAC patrols had seen an increase in distracted driving. They noticed that people were reading the newspaper, shaving, putting on make-up and having breakfast – all while driving. This is a major concern for road safety.
Some 96% of patrollers had had to rescue children and pets from locked vehicles. Many motorists may not realise how easily this happens in self-locking vehicles. It is dangerous for anyone to be locked in a car, especially on warm days.
Doing callouts is a dangerous job in WA: 91% had experienced a near-miss while attending a breakdown. Nearly 30% said this happened every month. It’s a reminder to drive slowly at 40 kph past all emergency vehicles, including those used by the RAC.
Some 80% of respondents said drivers commonly complained about the price of fuel. WA motorists may not know they can use Fuel Watch to keep track of fuel prices nearby. For example, it says Tuesdays are often the cheapest day to fill up.
Breakdowns not always bad
However, breakdowns are not bad for everyone:
- 64% found the driver and passengers enjoying a picnic, going to the beach, or taking a nap while they waited for the patrol car.
- 46% arrived to find a couple in the middle of a heated argument.
- 27% discovered a couple being passionate.
- 18% had driven an RAC member to something they could not miss, such as a wedding or job interview.
You can read more about the survey here.