Driving in the Northern Territory & Kimberley
  • Overview

    The roads in the Northern Territory and the Kimberley range from first-class, all-weather sealed roads, to little more than tracks that challenge the 4WD enthusiast. Many of the road conditions in this region have their own set of unique driving hazards like livestock, road trains, heat and long distance not normally encountered by the majority the visitors. While potentially lethal, many of the driving hazards that can lead to a road accident can be avoided with a bit of thought, care and attention. Always remember that the unexpected may be just around the corner, and modify your driving style in such a way that you have time to react should you find yourself in a spot of bother. Generally common sense is the most important factor in safe outback driving, more so than skill or experience.
  • Unsealed or Gravel Roads

    Vehicle behaviour on these roads is different to sealed roads. Drive within your capabilities and, as conditions vary, vary your speed accordingly. Do not speed in areas and conditions that are unfamiliar to you. Stopping distances increase and traction decreases when driving on unsealed roads. Reducing speed will ensure more effective stopping in an emergency. DO NOT TURN OR BRAKE SUDDENLY.

    Be wary of sudden changes in road quality. Vehicles on unsealed roads can raise a dust cloud which will obscure your vision of oncoming traffic. Slow down or stop until the dust settles. Watch for approaching vehicles throwing up stones which may break your windscreen. Only overtake if your vision is clear. Beware of driving when the sun is low on the horizon.
  • Wandering Stock

    Most roads are unfenced. Stock and wildlife have all caused road accidents by entering the line of traffic without warning. Dawn and dusk are dangerous times for wandering animals. Always look out for wandering animals on or near the road and do not drive at night if possible.
  • Water Crossings

    Markers indicate the depth in the middle of the creek should not be taken as gospel as wheel tracks in the sandy creek effectively makes the water deeper. If you are unsure wait for a tour vehicle or someone else with local knowledge to cross before attempting it.
    · Negotiate at a slow but consistent speed after studying the hazard. Reduce tyre pressure for deep sand.
    · Do not enter dips at high speed. Brake on entry and accelerate again as you exit to give maximum clearance. They may also contain water.
    · Check tracks across creeks for clear passage and water depth.
    · Do not camp in dry creek beds in case of flash flooding.
  • Speed

    Excessive speed is a major cause of road deaths. Be alert and travel at a speed that suits the road, vehicle and weather conditions and will allow you to stop safely. Safe speed for prevailing conditions on the open road. The best advice is to drive at a reasonable speed which allows you to stop safely.
  • Road Trains

    Road Trains are up to 53.5m long and 2.5m wide and have up to three trailers. Take care when overtaking road trains, and to pass safely you should be able to see at least one kilometre of clear road ahead.
  • Dust and Floods

    Some roads are dusty or prone to flash flooding. Check the depth, force and possibility of hidden obstructions in the water before proceeding. If unsure, wait until the level drops.
  • Tyre Blowouts

    If one of your tyres blows out or goes flat suddenly, the car will tend to weave or pull to one side. The risk is increased if the brakes are applied. Use them as little as possible and certainly avoid heavy braking. Grip the steering wheel firmly, take your foot gently off the accelerator, and roll to a stop by the side of the road. Hard braking will make things worse.
  • Shattered Windscreens

    The speed of the car is the most important factor on gravel and newly surfaced roads, slow down. If a windscreen shatters, you should be able to see enough to come calmly to a stop by the side of the road. If you are in a remote location and don't have access to a phone or passing traffic punch out a hole to see through, using gloves or a cloth. Drive to a phone with the other car windows closed.
  • Brake Failure

    If your brakes fail suddenly, pump the pedal. If this does not pump up the pressure enough for your brakes to work, then change to a lower gear and use the parking brake cautiously. If you must run off the road to avoid a collision, earth banks and ditches are safer to hit than trees or poles.

    After driving through deep water, some water may stay in the brakes and reduce their effectiveness. You should check them after driving out of water, and if they feel unsound (and it is safe to do so) drive slowly with one foot on the brake pedal until the brakes are dry and normal braking efficiency returns to normal.
  • Long Distance and Fatigue

    Driving long distances in hot weather can cause fatigue and lead to accidents. STOP and REST at least every two hours, change drivers, take a walk, drink some water. Avoid driving immediately after large meals (they tend to relax and tire the driver). Stop and rest if you feel drowsy or tired. Get off the road and do not continue to drive. An open window can help avoid drowsiness by letting in fresh air.
  • Overtaking

    It is strongly advised that you avoid overtaking on narrow road sections where it is necessary to leave the bitumen. It is better to lose some time than to lose your life. Road trains are up to 53.5m long and 2.5m wide and have up to four trailers. To pass safely you should be able to see at least one kilometre of clear road ahead of the road train.
  • Be Prepared

    The Region is well equipped with motor mechanics and parts retailers in the main centres. However, this is not always the case in remote areas, so be prepared. Ensure you have basic spare parts like a jack, tyre, torch and first aid kit. If you plan to go off the main roads always carry plenty of water.
  • Fuel Stops

    When you are planning to drive through the region, plan your fuel stops because you may need to carry extra fuel in remote areas. Some remote service stations have restricted opening hours and limited credit card facilities, so plan well and check ahead.
  • Finally, When driving in remote areas always:

    · Tell a reliable person where you are travelling and confirm arrival at your destination to prevent unnecessary searches being instigated.
    · Always carry and consume water to avoid dehydration. Allow 20 litres per person for two days' travelling and the expectation of breakdowns, and always top up the water container when water is available.
    · Ensure that you have enough fuel so that you are not stranded between refuelling points. Check opening times of roadhouses and other refuelling points.
    · In case of an emergency, stay with your vehicle and always stay in the shade. The vehicle offers shelter, and is easier to see from the air by rescuers.
    · Stay on the plotted route. Do not deviate for off-road exploration.
    · If you break down in a remote area, stay close to your vehicle. If lost or stranded, stay with your vehicle and conserve water.
    · Always check road and weather conditions before travelling into remote areas.
    · Plan ahead and ensure your vehicle is fully serviced and equipped and have it regularly serviced on long trips; obtain relevant maps; book your accommodation or campsites in advance, where applicable. Whether in a conventional vehicle or a 4WD, you will often be sharing the road with large vehicles that may also be having difficulty with the conditions:
    · When meeting semi-trailers or other heavy vehicles on unsealed or narrow roads, slow down and move to the left of the road. On narrow sealed roads, particularly when they are wet, the verges tend to be soft and/or slippery, so when pulling off to the left you should always keep your right wheels on the bitumen and keep moving slowly to prevent getting bogged.
    · If you meet a wide load with an escort vehicle, watch for signals. If you move off the road, reduce speed and watch for guide posts and soft edges. When travelling on unfenced roads and across pastoral properties:
    · If you see stock or wild animals near the road, slow down - they have a habit of crossing in front of you.
    · Many roads cross station properties and have gates on them. The rule of the Outback is to leave the gates in the same way that you find them, i.e. if the gate is closed when you get there, close it again after you drive through. If the gate is open when you arrive, leave it open.
    · Cattle grids are a potential hazard. Approach with caution.

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