The NHVR’s latest safety initiative is highlighting road safety through the eyes of Australia’s truckies.

Labelled ‘A Truckie Knows’, it will see truck drivers step into the spotlight to share their knowledge and experience from the roads to help make them safer.

Queensland minister for transport and main roads Brent Mickelberg says the government is committed to ensuring safety was a priority for all drivers as a part of the campaign.

“One of the most important elements of road safety is giving every single vehicle the space it needs,” he says.

“As this campaign calls out, we can all influence the way we interact with other road users.”

NHVR executive director Michelle Tayler says a key message from the campaign is to ensure that drivers are respecting each other on the road.

“There are truck drivers on Australia’s roads who have seen first-hand the full spectrum of driver behaviour,” she says.

“When you’re covering hundreds of thousands of kilometres of road, you learn important lessons like respect being a two-way street, leaving space for other drivers to make mistakes and that speeding doesn’t get you there faster.

“A Truckie Knows is about highlighting our truck drivers and the critical job they do, and asking them to share this wisdom with their peers.”

In a recent survey conducted by the NHVR, 64 per cent of light vehicle drivers reported tailgating as the most common aggressive driving behaviour experienced from heavy vehicles.

The same survey also revealed nearly 9 in 10 truck drivers reported experiencing a dangerous situation with a light vehicle over a four-week period.

“Our findings showed only nine per cent of truck drivers reported feeling the general public respects their profession,” Michelle says.

“Truck drivers generally have to deal with inexperienced drivers, long hours and tight deadlines, so there are frustrations that could impact behaviour on the roads.

“We need all drivers to give one another space and make road safety the highest priority.”

Truckie Robert Topp from Wemyss Transport is appearing in the campaign, and says he’s hoping his experiences on the road will help to promote safety among drivers.

“Being a truck driver isn’t just a job, it’s a lifestyle,” he says.

“We all know in theory how to make the roads as safe as possible, but this campaign is about making sure safe driving behaviour is always front of mind and reinforcing the message of respect.

“A truckie knows these things, and we can all help to drive the message home.”