Private vehicles

When volunteers use private vehicles to transport participants, there should be a clear agreement on expectations, including that:

 • Vehicles are registered, roadworthy, and have a current warrant of fitness

 • Drivers have their full driver licence

 • Vehicles’ seating capacity isn’t exceeded

 • Drivers and passengers are seated and restrained

 • Vehicles are insured

 • Passengers get out of the vehicle only on the footpath side

 • No one smokes, vapes, or uses alcohol or illegal substances in the vehicle

During the trip Drivers should:

 • Avoid driving in marginal weather conditions, eg high winds with trailers

 • Ask a person outside the vehicle to assist when reversing in tight areas or areas of high people use

 • Avoid driving when tired

 • Drive defensively – identify escape routes and be ready to take evasive action if required

 • Keep the speed down – don’t treat the speed limit as a target

• Avoid distractions

 • Snack on light food and drink water regularly

 • Get fresh air into the vehicle

 • Take regular breaks − Aim for a 5–10 minute stop every 60 minutes. It may be okay to drive for the first 2–3 hours. Avoid pushing through when tired – swap with another suitable driver if available or take a short nap before continuing.

Managing passengers to ensure that they will help keep themselves and the driver safe:

 • Follow the driver’s instructions

 • Put their bag in the luggage compartment, under the seat in front of them, or on the floor

 • Stay in their seat and wear their seatbelt

• Tell the driver if they have any concerns or feel unwell

 • Avoid putting their arms or head out of the windows or throwing anything out

• Avoid distracting the driver or annoying other passengers

 • Pay for damage that they cause to the vehicle