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Car Driving in Australia: The Absolute Basics

New to driving in Australia? There are a few things you should be keeping in mind when you first take to the road. Driving may look easy, and some people find it comes naturally. However, keeping in tune with the laws of the road and the lay of the land have always been important. Here’s our quick guide to some of the basics you’ll need to know when driving a car in Australia.

Know Your Place (On the Road)

First things first. Australians drive on the left, which means you’ll be looking to buy right-hand drive vehicles. Many international drivers can struggle with this, but we’re not the only nation to drive this way. British and Japanese drivers, as well as many across Europe, will be well at home here. If you’re a right-lane driver, you’re going to need to be careful coming up to roundabouts and other essential give-way junctions.

Know Your Place (On the Road)

First things first. Australians drive on the left, which means you’ll be looking to buy right-hand drive vehicles. Many international drivers can struggle with this, but we’re not the only nation to drive this way. British and Japanese drivers, as well as many across Europe, will be well at home here. If you’re a right-lane driver, you’re going to need to be careful coming up to roundabouts and other essential give-way junctions.

Wear Your Seat Belt

This should be common knowledge just about everywhere. It’s Australian law for you to wear a seatbelt whenever your car is moving. That means you, as a driver, and you’ll also be responsible for making sure your passengers wear them, too. You’ll get a hefty fine if you don’t wear them – and it’s incredibly dangerous to risk any trip without them. So why take the chance?

Put Down the Phone

Many countries have outlawed the use of mobile phones while driving for a good reason. They’re an incredible distraction and can cause accidents. As a result, Australian law has also outlawed mobile use outright while driving – that’s texting, taking snaps, talking, anything – and you’ll also get fined if you’re found using a phone at a red light. Simple point – just put the phone down, or set up a hands-free kit.

Secure Your Car

It’s a sad fact that car theft remains rife in Australia. Over 50,000 cars were stolen in one year according to national records. Whether you run a beat-up pick-up or a flashy Mitsubishi, you’re going to need to up your game when it comes to securing your vehicle.

The simplest tricks are the most effective. Lock your windows – always remove your keys from the ignition – and never turn off that alarm, no matter how annoying it may be. You’ll never know quite how useful it can be until you actually need it.

Take Plenty of Breaks

Finally, to break from some of the doom and gloom – just get out there and drive! Australia is home to some incredible stretches of road. For this reason, always try and plan your journeys – take plenty of water and rations, and do be prepared in case of breakdown or fuel depletion.

If it’s your first time driving in Australia and you’re looking for the right car, Auto Car Loans can help with low rate car finance options. Call our team on 1300 301 051 for advice on financing and finding that perfect ride!

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