Central Victorians are being urged to drive to the conditions as the change in season brings new hazards on the roads.
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Senior Sergeant Ian Brooks said now was the time for motorists to think about their driving and the condition of their car.
“There’s no requirement for people to still try to do the posted speed limit if visibility is poor,” he said.
“Be aware of what’s happening around you and drive to the conditions.”
Bendigo has already seen a number of foggy mornings impacting driver visibility this autumn and another three are forecast this week. From now, police also start to be wary of black ice and the danger is presents for road users.
“It’s called black ice because you can’t see it,” Senior Sergeant Brooks said.
The thin layer of ice forms when sub-zero temperatures are present with moisture on the road surface and can create havoc for drivers.
It is primarily found on the Calder Highway/Freeway and sections of the old Calder, but has also formed in central Bendigo.
“If the conditions are right, it can form on any road,” Senior Sergeant Brooks said.
“Studies have shown on all roads the best way to control your vehicle is to slow down and stick to the left-hand side of the road.”
The Bendigo Highway Patrol officer encouraged motorists to obey signs and lights if they were present, as they were on for a reason.
“To reduce the risk, travel at 40km/h and pay attention - that could be the difference between getting to your destination safely or not.”
He said motorists also needed to be aware of the condition of their car and their abilities as a driver.
“Check your car – make sure your tyres have got tread, that your lights and indicators work, that your windscreen is not badly stone-chipped or cracked and your wipers function properly,” Senior Sergeant Brooks said.
“If your car is safe, the safety of yourself and others around you is greater.”
Senior Sergeant Brooks also encouraged people to buy they safest car they could afford.