Western Australia Car Hire Tips

16-Nov-2011 Western Australia Car Hire Tips

Western Australia occupies a third of the continent`s area and forms a state. If you are planning a holiday there and wish to hire a car, here is a bit of advice to help the experience go smoothly. Firstly, speed and distance in the country is measured in kilometres and the country is left hand drive. You will need a valid driver`s licence in order to drive in Australia and, depending upon the country of origin, you can apply to have your licence converted to an Australian one. Some international visitors may have to sit for a theory and practical test before being allowed a licence so it is very important you check the situation with your travel operator before you go.

Seat belt use is compulsory for all passengers and drivers. Infants must be fastened into an approved safety capsule with harness - please be aware this law is enforced and it is the driver`s responsibility to make sure everyone is strapped up accordingly. It is a pretty hefty fine if you do not.

Australian police do conduct random breath tests and the legal limit is 0.05%, and your being stopped is not dependent upon you having committed a road related offence or driving suspiciously. It is wise not to refuse one and in certain parts of Australia drug testing is conducted too. Do not think having a rental will protect you from a court appearance or fine - the Aussie police WILL send notices to international addresses and you will probably find your hire company charges you extra too, so it is in your interests to obey road laws, speed limits and road signs. Your car hire provider should be able to provide you with all the information you need to do this and enjoy your holiday on the right side of the law.

One of the biggest issues of driving the roads in Australia, whatever area you are in, is the sheer distance between points. Toll roads do exist and whilst may seem like an extra you can do without will save time, fuel and will be easier to navigate. Please note that fuel may not always be available everywhere all the time. Common times for closures are late nights, early morning and Sundays, so be sure you have enough fuel or organise any stops accordingly.

It used to be the case that people travelling the more isolated roads of the area would stop or slow down to ask if other stationary car drivers were ok. Unfortunately, this tradition is on the decline so it is a good idea to make sure you have water, some food, any medication and even a blanket should you find yourself in trouble. Whatever you do, do not decide to leave your vehicle to go for help as you might quickly find yourself in deeper trouble! The best advice is to make sure you let your destination know your route and the time it is likely to take you and that way they can alert the appropriate services should you not arrive on time. Most of the Australia car hire vehicles will have survival guides and these coupled with some common sense should keep you safe on the roads.

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