Common road trip habit Aussie drivers should avoid - is it even legal?
Summer is just around the corner, which means road trip season is almost upon us.
But before you hit the road, there are a few key things to consider to keep your family safe.
Especially if you've got a boot full of luggage.
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Can you drive with the back window obstructed? Getty
If you're heading on a road trip with the family, there's a good chance that your car is piled high with suitcases - not to mention sports gear, Christmas presents, and all the other bits and bobs that are shoved in at the last minute.
So, are you allowed to drive if your back window is obscured?
Contrary to some beliefs, yes, it is totally legal to drive even if you can't see at all out of your rear windscreen - so long as both your wing mirrors are intact.
In Australia, the law mandates that the driver must be able to "clearly see by reflection the road behind the vehicle and any following or overtaking vehicle".
That means no paint, stickers, or anything else on your mirrors that could obstruct your view.
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Your mirrors must be unobstructed. Getty
Just remember that while blocking your view might be legal, it is never as safe as having full visibility.
Always be extra cautious when reversing or changing lanes.
Also be aware that rules vary overseas. If you're planning an international road trip, look up the laws before you hit the road.
How to best pack your car
Another thing you need to be wary of when your car is full is that everything is nice and secure. Having a secured load doesn't just mean the stuff on the outside of your car, but all your internal luggage, too.
"Loose items inside a vehicle can become dangerous projectiles during sudden braking or a crash," an NRMA spokesperson tells 9Travel.
"We urge all drivers to secure luggage and other objects properly to protect everyone in the car and other vehicles."
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You don't want loose items in your car. Getty
So if you have a loose suitcase, gas bottle, or even a soccer ball that could fly through from the boot into the passenger seats, it's illegal.
This also applies to any loose items on the back seat or on the dashboard.
When you're packing up the car, always place heavy items in the boot (low and forward), secured against the back of the rear seats.
If you have a hatchback, wagon, or SUV, a cargo barrier is the best way to prevent luggage from entering the cabin.
Use storage compartments, console boxes, or soft-sided bags under seats for anything that could roll around the floor.
A good road trip takes preparation. Getty
Finally, if you use a sat nav or GPS, make sure that it's placed in a way that doesn't obstruct your view of the road. The safest place for it is in the bottom right of your windscreen.
If the device is placed in the centre of the windscreen - so it's in line with the driver's eye as they're driving - it could be considered an illegal obstruction.
The NRMA also urges drivers to avoid early morning driving, even if you're trying to "beat the rush".
"You should never head out early at the expense of being well rested. It is always best to drive when you would normally be awake," a spokesperson tells 9Travel.
