Australian firm introduces R plates to assist drivers get again behind the wheel after highway trauma

An Australian firm by the identify of mycar (beforehand Kmart Tyre and Auto) has launched new R automotive plates that it says assist drivers who’re getting again behind the wheel after a protracted absence or traumatic expertise like a highway accident.

Like the present P and L plates presently in use within the nation that permit different drivers know for those who’re a learner or provisional driver, the R plates – R for ‘returning’ – point out to different highway customers {that a} driver must be supplied further area and handled with extra care as they navigate the roads.

Not like the P and L plates which might be sanctioned by the federal government, the thought for an R plate just isn’t an official proposal by any transport authority in Australia, Drive studies. Nonetheless, there isn’t a rule that claims drivers can’t use the R plate on their automobile because it doesn’t hinder visibility.

In response to mycar, about 75% of Australians have been affected by a highway incident, in response to a 1,000-person survey performed by Pureprofile in August this yr. 7News studies that of these affected, 21% took no less than six months to really feel snug in a automotive once more. The survey additionally revealed 66% of Australians mentioned they felt safer when studying to drive with seen L or P plates on their automotive as a result of different drivers would give them more room.

The design of the R plate encompasses a QR code that takes you to a devoted web page on mycar’s web site with hyperlinks to skilled help companies in Australia like Past Blue, the Amber Neighborhood and Highway Trauma Assist WA.

Whereas the thought is of excellent intentions, specialists usually are not totally satisfied by R plates. James Stewart of Driving Options additionally informed Drive that there’s an excessive amount of aggression on Australian roads and worries a blue R plate may entice bullying. What do you suppose? Is there a case for R plates and would they work in Malaysia?