To travel safely we need to know how to use our roads and what the dangers are.
Walking
Walking is a great way to get to nearby places and stay fit. When walking alone or with others you need to know how to cross roads safely and keep clear of cars leaving or entering driveways.
Always:
- Walk on the footpath, close to the houses and away from the road.
- Look and listen for traffic at driveways (some driveways are difficult to see). Look for a driver and make eye-contact so they know you are there. Wait for them to give way.
- Use crossings or cross at traffic lights if possible.
- Take care in car parks, school drop-off and pick-up points or busy shopping areas with lots of traffic.
- Walk facing oncoming traffic on roads where there are no footpaths.
- Share the footpath with others, including skaters, scooters, wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- Use the kerb drill.
On rural roads
- walk facing cars coming towards you
- keep as far off the road as you can
- walk in single file, shortest person at the front, so everyone can see
- if there’s a narrow bridge, stop in a safe place and listen carefully and look to make sure there are no cars coming before going onto the bridge and walking quickly across, facing traffic
- keep looking and listening for any cars that come from behind or in front.
Cycling
When cycling you should know how to ride well and ride safely in traffic before you try to ride to school. You need to know the road rules and read the road code.
Remember to:
- keep left
- check over your shoulder for traffic
- use the correct lane
- pass other road users safely
- use hand signals
- be safe and show respect when cycling in groups
- share the road and paths
- expect hazards and ride to avoid them.
In a car
Passengers can help keep everyone safe. It is important not to distract the driver and be respectful.
Remember to: 
- wait until the car has stopped before getting in
- always wear your seat belt
- get out of the car on the footpath side only
- don’t distract the driver
- keep your hands and legs inside the car
- check with the driver before opening the windows for any reason
- look out for people on foot and cyclists when opening the door
- let the driver know if you see anything that could become a danger such as another car pulling out in front.
Ready for a quiz? Try the interactive Being Road Smart activity .
