Tragically one child is accidentally run over in their own driveway every week in Australia.
Why are children at risk in the Driveway:
- Young children are naturally inquisitive and want to see what is going on. They move surprisingly fast and can run into the path of a moving vehicle without warning.
- In the time it takes for the driver to say goodbye and start the car, a child can move from a ‘safe’ position onto the driveway and into the path of the vehicle.
- Small children, particularly toddlers, can be impossible to see from inside a car, especially if they are directly behind it.
- Most drivers are aware of their car’s ‘blind spots’ however the rear vision of a number of popular cars has been tested and results show that there is in fact a large ‘blind space’ behind most cars, particularly when reversing.
- Even if your car has parking sensors or a video camera fitted, you may not notice a small child until it is too late to stop.
Safety Steps to prevent driveway run overs:
- Always supervise your children and do not let them play around cars. When near cars hold their hand or hold them close to keep them safe.
- Don’t let your children use the driveway as a play area; create safe play areas for your children.
- If you are the only adult at home and need to move a vehicle, even only a small distance, place your child securely in the vehicle with you while you move it.
- Make access to the driveway from the house difficult for young children, by using security doors, fencing or gates.
- Drivers should walk around their vehicle before moving it, especially where children may have been.
- Children learn mostly by observation and imitation. Examples set by parents can have effects on their behaviour.
- The SDERA Smart Steps program recommends having a Safety Spot where children are to always stand with a parent/guardian when cars are moving. For more information about car driveway safety contact www.westsideauto.com.au
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Driveway Safety: Protecting Your Children
Driveway safety is often overlooked, but it’s a critical concern, especially for families with young children. Every week in Australia, one child is tragically run over in a driveway accident. Understanding the risks and taking simple precautions can save lives. Here are a few critical safety steps to keep in mind:
- Supervision is Key: Always supervise children when they are near vehicles. Never leave them unattended in the driveway.
- Create Safe Play Areas: Ensure children play in safe, fenced areas away from driveways and moving vehicles.
- Walk Around the Vehicle: Before moving your car, do a thorough check of your surroundings, especially in areas where children may be playing.
- Driveway Safety Spot: Establish a designated “Safety Spot” where children must wait while cars are moving.
Taking extra care and setting up routines can significantly reduce the risk of driveway accidents
Top 10 Safest Cars in Australia and Their Features
Ensuring the safety of your family on the road is a top priority, and having a vehicle equipped with advanced safety features can make all the difference. Australia has strict safety standards for cars, and modern vehicles are packed with technology designed to protect passengers and pedestrians alike.
Below are the top 10 safest cars available in Australia, based on their safety ratings and features that help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.
1. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 consistently ranks among the safest cars in Australia, earning a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. It's equipped with advanced safety technologies to protect your family on the road.
- Key Features:
- Pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Automatic emergency braking (AEB)
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
2. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is another top-rated SUV that combines style with comprehensive safety features. It's a family favourite due to its reliability and safety.
- Key Features:
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assist
- Traffic sign recognition
- Rear parking sensors and reversing camera
- Smart City Brake Support (front and rear)
3. Subaru Outback
Subaru vehicles are renowned for their all-wheel drive and advanced safety technology, and the Subaru Outback is no exception. It’s perfect for both city driving and family road trips.
- Key Features:
- EyeSight Driver Assist technology (includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance)
- AEB with pedestrian detection
- Reverse automatic braking
- Rearview camera with parking sensors
- Driver monitoring system to detect signs of fatigue
4. Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson offers great value for money, packed with the latest safety features and earning top safety ratings.
- Key Features:
- Forward collision-avoidance assist
- Lane-following assist
- Driver attention warning
- Safe exit warning to prevent accidents when exiting the vehicle
- Rear occupant alert to remind drivers to check the back seats
5. Volvo XC90
Volvo is synonymous with safety, and the Volvo XC90 is one of the safest SUVs you can buy. With a range of driver-assistance features, it’s a leader in family safety.
- Key Features:
- City Safety with AEB (includes pedestrian, cyclist, and large animal detection)
- Run-off road protection and mitigation
- Oncoming lane mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring with steer assist
- 360-degree camera for parking assistance
6. Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is a spacious SUV with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, making it an excellent choice for families.
- Key Features:
- Safe Exit Assist to prevent opening doors into traffic
- Blind-spot collision avoidance
- Autonomous emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection
- Multi-collision braking system
- Rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist
7. Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is not only eco-friendly but also one of the safest vehicles on the road, equipped with a suite of safety features and earning a 5-star ANCAP rating.
- Key Features:
- Autopilot with adaptive cruise control
- Forward collision warning and AEB
- Lane departure avoidance
- Emergency lane departure avoidance
- Over-the-air software updates to improve safety features
8. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape is a reliable family SUV that offers great performance and safety features designed to protect both the driver and passengers.
- Key Features:
- Pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection
- Evasive steering assist
- Active park assist
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Blind-spot information system
9. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V offers a smooth ride with a robust set of safety features, making it a solid choice for Australian families.
- Key Features:
- Collision mitigation braking system
- Lane-keeping assist system
- Forward collision warning
- Rear-view camera with parking sensors
- Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow
10. Toyota Corolla
While it's smaller than the other vehicles on this list, the Toyota Corolla is a safe and reliable option, ideal for city driving with top-notch safety features for its class.
- Key Features:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Road sign assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- AEB and pedestrian detection
Find the Safest Used Cars Today
Choosing a safe vehicle for your family is an important decision. At Westside Auto Wholesale, we offer a wide range of used cars for sale that meet the highest Australian safety standards, including many of the models mentioned in this article. Whether you’re after a top-rated SUV, an eco-friendly hybrid, or a spacious people mover, we’ve got you covered with the best deals in Australia.
Our expert team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect car to suit your needs, whether it’s for everyday driving or long family road trips. We only stock quality vehicles that have undergone rigorous safety checks, ensuring peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
