As icy winds cut across Victoria and rain turns highways slick, RACV has issued a sharp reminder to drivers: road conditions change in winter, and so should your driving.
With the road toll already climbing—159 lives lost this year as of 7 July, up 12 per cent from the same time in 2024—RACV is calling on motorists to take winter hazards seriously. Head of Policy James Williams says the issue isn’t just the weather. It’s how drivers respond to it.
“During winter, roads are often slick from rain, frost or black ice, and that means you need to allow for longer stopping distances,” Williams said. “Tailgating is especially dangerous in these conditions, and we urge all drivers to leave plenty of space between their vehicle and the one in front.”
The warning follows data showing that 60 per cent of wet-weather fatalities in Victoria last year occurred at night and mainly outside metropolitan areas. Conditions are harder to assess after dark, particularly on country roads, and RACV is urging regional drivers not to take shortcuts with safety.
Among the biggest threats this season is black ice. Unlike other hazards, it’s almost invisible. Drivers often don’t realise they’ve hit it until they’re already skidding. “Black ice is a dangerous proposition for motorists because it’s difficult to detect and can lead to a loss of control over your vehicle,” Williams explained.
The advice? If you see what looks like a glossy surface on the bitumen—especially early in the morning or near shaded corners—assume it could be ice. RACV says the best response is to lower speed gently and keep the steering wheel straight. If the car starts to slide, ease the wheel in the direction of the skid to avoid overcorrecting.
But it’s not just about reacting once something goes wrong. Williams says prevention is better—and cheaper—than crash repairs. “Basic maintenance goes a long way,” he said. “Check your tyres have sufficient tread, make sure your lights and windscreen wipers are working, and top up your coolant and washer fluid.”
Flat batteries also top the list of winter breakdown callouts. Colder temperatures can take a toll on older batteries, so checking battery health before the next road trip is a smart move.
RACV’s winter driving checklist keeps things simple:
- Increase following distance in the wet or frost.
- Accelerate and brake gently.
- Avoid flooded roads entirely—even shallow water can hide damage or sweep a vehicle away.
- Get your car winter-ready with proper checks on tyres, lights, wipers, and fluids.
- Carry snow chains if heading to the Victorian alps—it’s not just about safety, but a legal requirement.
Above all, patience and planning matter. “Most importantly, plan ahead, check the weather and traffic reports before heading off, and be patient on the roads,” said Williams.
With more rain and freezing mornings forecast across Victoria this month, authorities are hoping small changes in driver behaviour can prevent more lives being lost on the road. The message is clear: conditions change—so should you.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
⚠️@RACV_Official warns drivers as #Victoria's road toll rises 12% this winter (159 lives lost this year as of 7 Jul).🚗 Increase following distance, watch for black ice & prep cars for wet conditions.❄️ "Conditions change—so should you." #TheIndianSun
🔗 https://t.co/ZrBq1j0G5T pic.twitter.com/O2nC0cMjJI
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) July 9, 2025
Donate To The Indian Sun
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun is an independent organisation committed to community journalism. We have, through the years, been able to reach a wide audience especially with the growth of social media, where we also have a strong presence. With platforms such as YouTube videos, we have been able to engage in different forms of storytelling. However, the past few years, like many media organisations around the world, it has not been an easy path. We have a greater challenge. We believe community journalism is very important for a multicultural country like Australia. We’re not able to do everything, but we aim for some of the most interesting stories and journalism of quality. We call upon readers like you to support us and make any contribution. Do make a DONATION NOW so we can continue with the volume and quality journalism that we are able to practice.
Thank you for your support.
Best wishes,
Team The Indian Sun
