Driver Safety Resources
Safe Driving Tips
The following tips reflect Murcotts BAAMS behavioural model and more than 50 years of fleet safety experience. They highlight the human factors behind most crashes including distraction, poor observation, rushed decisions, fatigue, attitude and unnecessary risk taking. They also provide a preview of the value delivered in Murcotts Training Programs, where these principles are explored in depth and applied to real world driving.
Driver Behaviour
Core Safe Driving Principles
Eight practical, behaviour-focused habits that reduce risk on every trip — on their own, or as a refresher alongside hands-on training.
1
LOOK UP. STAY BACK®
Your eyes lead your driving.
- ✓Keep your vision high and scan well ahead
- ✓Maintain generous following distance
- ✓Create space so you have time to react
This single habit prevents more crashes than any other.
2
Manage Your Speed — Not Just Your Speedometer
Speed is more than a number. It affects:
- ✓Stopping distance
- ✓Reaction time
- ✓Vehicle stability
- ✓Your ability to avoid hazards
Drive at a speed that matches conditions, not just the limit.
3
Reduce Distraction
Distraction is one of the biggest contributors to crashes.
- ✓Put your phone out of reach
- ✓Avoid multitasking
- ✓Keep conversations light
- ✓Set navigation and climate controls before moving
If your mind is elsewhere, your driving is too.
4
Build Better Hazard Perception
Safe drivers constantly read the environment.
- ✓Scan for movement, brake lights, pedestrians and merging vehicles
- ✓Look for “clues” — parked cars, intersections, shadows, reflections
- ✓Anticipate what other road users might do
Good drivers don’t just react — they predict.
5
Drive Defensively, Not Aggressively
Defensive driving means:
- ✓Expecting mistakes from others
- ✓Leaving space
- ✓Staying patient
- ✓Avoiding unnecessary lane changes
- ✓Choosing safety over convenience
Aggression increases risk; calm driving reduces it.
6
Know Your Vehicle
Modern vehicles have advanced safety systems — but only if you use them correctly.
- ✓Understand ABS, traction control and stability systems
- ✓Adjust seating, mirrors and steering for proper ergonomics
- ✓Keep tyres inflated and maintained
- ✓Know your vehicle’s limits, especially in wet conditions
Confidence comes from familiarity.
7
Manage Fatigue Before It Manages You
Fatigue affects judgement long before you feel tired.
- ✓Take breaks every 2 hours
- ✓Avoid driving late at night or after long workdays
- ✓Recognise early signs: drifting, heavy eyes, zoning out
If you wouldn’t trust yourself at work in that state, don’t trust yourself behind the wheel.
8
Adjust to Conditions — Every Trip Is Different
Weather, traffic, lighting and road surfaces all change risk levels.
- ✓Slow down in rain
- ✓Increase following distance at night
- ✓Be cautious on rural roads
- ✓Expect reduced traction on gravel or worn surfaces
Conditions change quickly; your driving should too.