Phones not the biggest issue
I read with a degree of trepidation Web Words (Weekend Advertiser, February 10) the extent of zealous retribution to be metered out for use of mobile phones while driving.
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For sure, texting or reading text while driving is a diabolical practice, and those who do so should seriously self-introspect regards this malpractice for obvious reasons, or risk incurring appropriate consequences and/or penalty.
However, a very real issue I’ve noted that consistently occurs pertains to overtaking vehicles cutting back into left lane, by far, far too early (even when less of a necessity to expediently do so).
Thus, one doesn’t need to draw a long bow to envisage this one factor has attributed, in some way, to many accidents (and, this possibly without the actual involvement of the overtaking vehicle, or even the driver’s awareness) in situations when speed differentials are minimal and, in particular, when there is a higher speed limit.
In a nutshell, this is a potentially diabolic, unrealised and consistent malpractice attributable to many folk not appreciating that convex rear vision mirrors, as fitted to the majority of more modern motor vehicles, foreshorten the visual reflection back to the vehicle just overtaken.
Thus, these drivers mistakenly adjudge the clearance required to facilitate sensibly and safely being able to move over, back into the left lane.
Thus, situational awareness is severely compromised.
Risking being somewhat colloquial, this is basically an inattentive oversight that is akin to stupidity and, evidently, very nearly mass stupidity.
Thus, I suggest, there needs to be a proactive/renewed and Australia-wide media campaign initiated by the various state traffic authorities to educate drivers regarding this seemingly more mundane matter and, as a matter of some urgency.
Don Lucas
Beckom
Volunteers heed the call
Every March for 70 years, thousands of volunteers have made a wonderful contribution to our community during Red Cross Calling. They’ve knocked on their neighbours’ doors, said hello and their combined efforts have raised millions.
I’d like to send a massive thanks to the thousands of schools, businesses, community organisations and our dedicated Red Cross members who’ve answered the call over the years.
All of that effort has gone a long way, allowing Red Cross to help where we’re needed most; from providing support during and after disasters, to making phone calls to check on the isolated and elderly, to helping communities make a better future for themselves.
So many extraordinary volunteers here in NSW have also gone the extra mile – not just raising money but also reaching out to their neighbours, asking how they’re going and checking on their wellbeing.
Red Cross Calling is more than a fundraiser – it gives us a reason to connect and volunteer for the sake of our community.
Research shows that volunteering and helping in our neighbourhoods helps us live happier, longer lives.
These volunteers make Australia a special place to live.
This year we aim to double the number of volunteers in NSW. Will you be one of them?
Join the fun today: redcrosscalling.org.au or call 1800 RED CROSS (733 276).
You can also contact your local Red Cross branch so you can join their efforts.
Jody Broun
NSW/ACT Australian Red Cross director
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