Goldfields Getaway
13 June, 2024
Top 5 tips for travelling safely in winter
Driving in rural areas can be very different to driving in metropolitan areas, especially in the colder months. Here’s our tips to help you safely explore the Central Goldfields in your vehicle during the winter. Drive for the conditions Check...
Driving in rural areas can be very different to driving in metropolitan areas, especially in the colder months. Here’s our tips to help you safely explore the Central Goldfields in your vehicle during the winter.
Drive for the conditions
Check your weather app before hitting the roads, as wet roads and black ice can reduce grip, sometimes without warning. Fog and heavy rain can drastically decrease visibility, making it hard to see other vehicles and turn-off signage. Also note that some unsealed roads may become unsuitable for standard vehicles in wet conditions, so be careful when following GPS directions.
Slow down
Just because road signs say 100 doesn’t meant you need to stick to this in bad weather. Travel just a little slower, especially in unfamiliar areas, as there may be pot holes in the roads or other unseen hazards. Always pause before taking off from stop signs or intersections in case other vehicles lose traction.
Maintain a safe braking distance
It takes much longer to stop in the wet, so don’t follow other cars too closely when it’s raining, or if the roads are wet and icy. Tailgating is unsafe and illegal, especially on hilly or unfamiliar roads.
When in doubt, pull over
In wet weather use your air conditioner to prevent your windscreen from fogging up. If visibility becomes so limited you can’t see the edges of the road or other vehicles at a safe distance try pulling over and waiting for conditions to ease.
Look out for wildlife
Kangaroos and wallabies usually move around during dusk but can also be active on darker winter days. Slow down when driving through areas of heavy bushland as they can appear suddenly, and remember - if you see one kangaroo, there are probably more nearby. If you hit an animal when driving, report the collision to Central Goldfields Wildlife Rescue on 0499 654 950 orWildlife Victoria’s Emergency Response Service hotline on (03) 8400 7300.