Monash University Accident Research Centre - MUARC

01/06/2026

In the news: Dr Amanda Stephens spoke to 88.3 Southern FM regarding road rage, and what goes through the mind of a tailgater. Listen to her interview here -

What is that tail-gater thinking? Road rage podcast Leave a comment Experts at the Monash University Accident Research Centre have research on the links between road rage and accidents. Dr Amanda Stephens is a Psychologist and a Senior Researcher. Listen to her tell Clare Arthurs: what tail-gaters m...

28/05/2026

New research from MUARC has found that driver monitoring systems linked to Advanced Driver Assistance Systems already fitted to vehicles could prevent or mitigate nearly 40,000 serious injury crashes in Victoria alone over the next 30 years, and that doing so would be highly cost-effective.

The paper examined the proportion of serious injury crashes in which driver distraction and drowsiness were direct contributing factors. Read more here -

New research from the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) has found that driver monitoring systems (DMS) linked to Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) already fitted to vehicles could prevent or mitigate nearly 40,000 serious injury crashes in Victoria alone over the next 30 yea...

22/05/2026

Going away for the weekend?

Today’s National Road Safety Week theme, ‘Plan your drive’, is a reminder that safe journeys start before you get behind the wheel.

Planning your route, checking traffic and weather conditions, scheduling rest breaks, and allowing enough travel time can all help reduce stress and fatigue on the road.

The National Road Safety Partnership Program has shared practical tips to help road users prepare for safer trips this weekend. Small steps in planning can make a big difference in getting everyone home safely - https://www.nrspp.org.au/resources/nrspp-quick-fact-journey-planning/

21/05/2026

As part of National Road Safety Week, today’s theme, ‘Refresh your road rules knowledge’, is a timely reminder that road safety is something we should never stop learning about.

At MUARC, our research continues to explore the behaviours, environments and systems that influence safety on our roads. From understanding driver behaviour to evaluating road safety interventions and emerging transport technologies, our work helps inform evidence-based approaches to reducing road trauma.

19/05/2026

This week, 17-24 May, is National Road Safety Week, an annual initiative from the Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group, in collaboration with government bodies and road safety organisations. The week raises awareness of the devastating impact of road trauma and promotes the actions to reduce it.

Today’s theme, ‘Be mindful of young people on our roads’, is one MUARC is committed to through evidence-based research and safer systems approaches.

Our recent research into supervised driving practice found that giving learner drivers more time, experience and support behind the wheel can lead to safer outcomes once they begin driving independently.

Helping young drivers build confidence and safe habits early can make a lasting difference - for them, their passengers, and everyone on our roads. Read more: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsr.2026.03.009

27/04/2026

Calmer driving is a learnable skill. Our Reducing Aggressive Driving (RAD) Program is a 1.5-hour online course that gives drivers evidence-based tools to manage emotion behind the wheel. For individuals, teams, or whole driving workforces. Why wait? Enrol now -

For those seeking a comprehensive approach to address aggressive driving behaviour, the RAD program is an initiative developed to recognise how emotions can influence driving, foster safer road behaviours and enhance understanding of the intricate relationship between emotions and driving.

19/04/2026

In the news: MUARC research featured on 7NEWS Australia regarding findings that injuries from vehicle crashes dropped by 9.7% in areas where 40km/h limits had been introduced.

New research has shown the number of injuries from crashes drops if speed limits are lowered in built-up areas.

01/04/2026

New research from MUARC has found that lowering speed limits to 40 km/h on certain Victorian roads can significantly improve road safety, particularly for pedestrians. The findings provide evidence to guide potential further expansion of 40 km/h zones across the state. https://www.monash.edu/muarc/news-and-events/articles/pedestrian-safety-gets-a-boost-from-40kmh-speed-limits

25/03/2026

How do factors like mindfulness and technology readiness impact your focus behind the wheel?

We are looking for Australian drivers to help us understand the relationship between smartphone use, distraction management, and road safety. Your input is essential for developing evidence-based safety strategies.

https://monash.syd1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_26pWmLYKjjdvhgW

23/03/2026

In the news: MUARC research featured in ABC News, which found lightening a vehicles load and using cruise control can reduce fuel consumption.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-17/expert-tips-on-saving-fuel-reduce-travel/106464820