Uni return and peak crash times collide

RACV has urged students to be alert and to ensure their vehicles are adequately insured as they head back to university during a peak car collision period.
New RACV Insurance claims data for the past five financial years reveals that March and May record the highest number of vehicle collisions.
Coincidentally, the local government areas that are home to Victoria’s largest universities also ranked in the Top 15 regions for crash claims.
RACV General Manager Insurance, Paul Northey, said that Melbourne, Boroondara, Monash, Banyule, Greater Geelong and Whitehorse had been consistently among the most collision-prone municipalities over the past five years.
RACV claims figures highlight that most accidents happen after noon, peaking between 4pm and 5pm.
“Young drivers are most at risk as soon as they obtain a probationary licence,” Mr Northey said.
“In the first year of driving, their risk of crashing is three times higher than an experienced driver.
“As well as concentrating on their own driving, all motorists must anticipate the actions of others on the road. Our claims data shows that the other party was at fault in 31 per cent of collision claims in 2015, while 39 per cent were caused by the insured.”
On average, RACV processes more than 75,000 collision claims each year. The value of claims has been steadily rising and in 2015 repairs or replacements cost almost $370 million, 15 per cent higher than in 2011.
Mr Northey said uninsured motorists involved in an accident potentially faced costly repairs to their vehicle and liability for any damage caused to other vehicles or property.
“It’s a good idea for motorists to take out comprehensive insurance cover,” he said.