Drive TV, the broadcast extension of the automotive site Drive, premieres Drive Safer this weekend, a four-part docu-series aimed at tackling Australia’s road safety crisis over the holiday period.
From Nine:
Over four weeks, Drive TV host Jess Lydka-Morris and TV personality Kris Smith highlight the urgent need for a change in driver habits in the aim to make Australian roads safer for everyone this holiday period.
Almost 1300 people have died on Australian roads in the past 12 months, with the biggest spike affecting children aged seven and under. According to the latest statistics from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics, Australia’s road toll rose by almost five per cent for the year to date, with last month the deadliest October in eight years.
Drive TV Executive Producer, Terry King said:
“Our mission behind producing Drive Safer was to foster better driving habits and reduce road fatalities:
“With such alarming road toll statistics, we knew we had to create something impactful that not only informs viewers but inspires change.”
“Our team feels a strong responsibility to contribute to safer roads for all Australians, and we’re incredibly proud to bring this vital message to life through Drive Safer.”
Across four episodes, Drive Safer demonstrates hands-on driver training, explores active and passive vehicle safety features, helps viewers understand vehicle safety ratings and advanced technology adoption plus highlights the need for greater driver awareness behind the wheel.
Drive Safer features a lineup of leading industry experts to share their insights and real-world experiences, including renowned driver trainer Ian Luff, motoring commentator Daniel Gardner, Professor Stuart Newstead from Monash University’s Accident Research Centre, and Russell White from the Australian Road Safety Foundation.
Professor Stuart Newstead from Monash University’s Accident Research Centre explains:
“In terms of crash involvement, a five-star car is generally about 20% less likely to be involved in a crash compared to a one-star car.”
“And when we talk about fatality or serious injury risk, in your average one-star car compared to your average five-star car, you’re about two and a half times more likely to be killed or seriously injured in the one-star car.”
Host Kris Smith said:
“Road safety is about more than just statistics; it’s about saving lives and ensuring that everyone gets home safely.”
“Through this series, we hope to inspire Australians to rethink their habits and embrace the tools and knowledge that can make a real difference on our roads.”
Drive TV presenter Jess Lydka-Morris added:
“It’s not just about your driving. It’s about creating safer roads for everyone.”
Complementing the TV series, a Drive Safer print lift-out will feature in The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age newspapers on Saturday 7th December offering practical tips and resources for safer summer driving this Christmas holiday period.
