Afternoons most dangerous time to drive on NSW roads
26% of accidents in Sydney happen on Monday afternoon.
Motorists are most at risk during the afternoon peak travel period, according to a GIO analysis of more than 6,000 compulsory third party insurance (CTP) claims. Accidents also seem to be concentrated on specific days.
Monday, for example, proved the most dangerous for Sydney’s road-users, with 26% of injuries occurring. In Western Sydney, the chance of injury rose as high as 30%. Claims were highest for drivers in Newcastle, the Hunter Valley and Regional NSW on Friday afternoons. Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons also ranked highly.
“Most injuries on our roads are happening at the start and end of the working week, when commuters are rushing to get home. Friday afternoon is when people are most tired, often exhausted from the week and feeling impatient behind the wheel,” said GIO spokesperson Alexandra Foley.
Foley stated impatient drivers are more likely to drive too close to the car in front or overlook other road users.
“Failing to give way on the road and tailgating are often a result of impatient driving and are contributing factors to many of these accidents,” she said.
| Location | Worst day of week | Most dangerous time of week | % Accidents in afternoon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | Monday | Afternoon | 26% |
| Western Sydney | Monday | Afternoon | 30% |
| Newcastle | Friday | Afternoon | 26% |
| Hunter Valley | Friday | Afternoon | 26% |
| Regional NSW | Friday | Afternoon | 27% |
The release coincided with an announcement from the NSW Police that there had been an increase in the death toll on NSW roads from the previous year.
"Last year, 393 people lost their lives on NSW roads, 13 more than the previous year. Clearly, we all need to do more to drive down the road toll in NSW," said a NSW Police spokesperson in a statement.
What’s the solution?
For GIO’s Foley, the solution is clear. Drivers need to remain alert and vigilant, no matter what time of day it is.
“A split-second loss of concentration or misjudgement is all it takes to cause an accident that can lead to devastating long-term injuries or worse. It affects more than just the injured people; it affects families and whole communities,” Foley said.
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