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Drive safely
In NSW, seatbelt-wearing is compulsory as are child restraints and baby capsules. It is illegal to leave a child unattended in a vehicle. For motorcyclists, crash helmets are mandatory.
The signposted speed limit is the maximum driving speed allowable. Reduced speeds at school zones, road works and other special areas apply. The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05% and zero for L- and P-plate drivers.
Always check road and weather conditions prior to travelling into remote areas and advise local authorities of your intended itinerary. Storms and heavy rains can occur during summer and flooding may isolate towns. Two-way radios, satellite or CDMA mobile phones are strongly recommended when travelling in the region as normal mobile phones may not work.
Visitors need to take extra care when driving in NSW Outback – drive at a safe speed, especially on unsealed roads, and when passing other vehicles. Slow down for oncoming vehicles, moving off to the left when large vehicles such as road trains approach.
A major cause of death and injury is driving while fatigued. Avoid driving between midnight and dawn and ensure you are well rested before undertaking a long trip. Remember: stop, revive and survive. Take a break every two hours and share the driving whenever possible.
Always check distances that need to be travelled and carry appropriate levels of fuel and water with you. On major highways fuel stops are rarely more than 200 km apart and it should not be necessary to carry spare fuel (check the services grid on page 38 for fuel stops). However, if you carry extra fuel, ensure that it is kept securely outside the vehicle and stored in approved containers.
Ensure your vehicle is mechanically sound and that your spare tyre is at the correct pressure. You may want to carry other spares, including radiator hoses and fanbelts, along with a good tool kit.
If your vehicle breaks down, do not leave it. Your vehicle will provide you with shelter until help arrives and will be easier for a search party to spot.
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