General News
11 August, 2026
TAC urges driver caution
Transport Accident Commission (TAC) research has revealed a significant number of motorists admitted to driving dangerously.
The TAC Road Safety Monitor is an annual survey of more than 2000 Victorian license holders.
Findings from the report revealed a pattern of motorists stacking risks where those who admitted to one unsafe behaviour were more likely to report another.
Almost half of respondents admitted they had both knowingly driven while ‘quite tired’ and intentionally sped by more than 3 km/h in the past year.
The survey also found 40.2 percent of drivers admitted to low-level speeding and using their phone, while 38.2 percent admitted they used their phone while driving tired.
One in three respondents both reported driving after drinking alcohol and driving tired in the past year.
According to the TAC, speeding is involved in around a third of fatal crashes.
Around 80 percent of those involved exceeded the limit by fewer than 10 km/h.
Drink-driving is a factor in around a quarter of road deaths in Victoria, while driving tired contributes to 16 to 20 per cent of fatal crashes.
TAC CEO Tracey Slatter said the findings were a “stark reminder” that dangerous driving puts lives at risk.
“Every dangerous choice – whether it’s speeding, distraction, fatigue or alcohol – raises your risk of a crash and combining them multiplies the danger. Slow down, stay focused, and never drive impaired,” she said.
According to the TAC, the survey provides important insights into driver behaviour and community attitudes, helping guide enforcement efforts, policy and campaigns aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries on Victorian roads.
“While most people intend to do the right thing, many make poor choices when under time and other pressures, and the Road Safety Monitor reinforces where we need to focus our behaviour change efforts,” Ms Slatter said.
“Reducing road trauma in Victoria means tackling the full picture of driver behaviour, because multiple risky habits can quickly add up with devastating consequences.”