Driveway Safety

Tragically one child, often a toddler, is run over in the driveway of their home every week in Australia.

Studies have tested the rear vision of a number of popular cars and results show that there is a large “blind zone” behind most cars.

What can you do to keep your child safer?
• ALWAYS SUPERVISE your children whenever a vehicle is to be moved - hold their hands or hold them close to keep them safe.
• If you’re the only adult around and need to move a vehicle, even just a small distance, PUT CHILDREN SECURELY IN THE VEHICLE WITH YOU while you move it.
• ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO PLAY IN SAFER AREAS AWAY FROM THE DRIVEWAY & CARS - the driveway is like a small road and should not be used as a play area.
• MAKE CHILD ACCESS TO THE DRIVEWAY DIFFICULT – for example use security doors, fencing or gates

At Kidsafe House, a fence separates the driveway area from the house and play area and creates a safer play area for children. Note: There is no substitute for supervision of children in and around vehicles.

For more information on driveway safety visit the following websites:

• NRMA
• Motor Accidents Authority
• Early Childhood Road Safety Education Program

You can also request a free child road safety enquiry package from Kidsafe NSW by calling (02) 9845 0890 or by emailing the Road Safety Coordinator

This web page has been developed as part of the Child Road Safety Initiative, funded by the Motor Accidents Authority and based at Kidsafe NSW.

Last updated February 2007