Driving through Australia's outback will take you into some remote areas where planning is extremely necessary. Road safety is extremely important to keep in mind while going for a road trip. In Australia vehicles drive on the left side of the road and it is mandatory for all passengers to wear seat belts. U turns at traffic lights are not permitted unless permitted by the use of a sign. At roundabouts one must give way to vehicles already taking the roundabout. You are required to give way to public buses. You are permitted to drive with an overseas or out of state drivers license for a period of one year. Just like in most countries drivers in Australia are not allowed to talk with their mobile phones while driving.
It is an offence to travel above 110 kilometers per hour but speed limits In Australia vary according to state. Suburban roads are capped at 50 kilometers per hour while metropolitan roads 60 kilometers per hour. School zones are restricted at 40 kilometers per hour. Highways and freeways are marked from 80-110 kilometers per hour. Australia has severe penalties for those found driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Drivers are required to maintain alcohol/blood level below 0.05 percent.
You are advised to their vehicle before the on start of the journey, it important to have a toolkit, spare tire, spare parts and a first aid kit along with them for the journey. Water, food, and extra fuel are also essential. For caravans and trailers it essential for one to know the set load limit and make sure tat the load is properly secured. For those vehicles towing a trailer or caravan the set speed limit is 100 kilometers per hour outside a built up area. It is advisable to check road conditions before starting the journey. Roads that are closed should not be accessed at any time. One should be on the look out for road trains. This are trucks with up to four trailers and on open roads can travel at speeds as high as 100 kilometers per hour.
For those planning to travel through aboriginal lands, it is essential to have a permit before traveling. Parks also may require permits. Permits can be found even in the Internet. Cattle stations are not fenced and it is common for one to encounter wandering wildlife and cattle. During dusk and dawn one should be very careful since this are the most dangerous times and one is likely to encounter wildlife.
In Australia food and fuel can be found in every 100-300 kilometers but in remote areas one is asked to stock on extra fuel and food. Some service stations have restricted hours of business and no bank facilities. It is advisable to have with you a current road map that is well detailed for one may never know when they need it. Four by four vehicles are better when it comes to taking long road trips, they are designed to endure even the toughest terrain.
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