Do you know what tailgating is, the rules around merging, or who gives way at a roundabout?

Member for Ku-ring-gai, Alister Henskens SC MP, said Road Rules Awareness Week, which kicked off yesterday, is the perfect time for all road users to refresh their knowledge of the NSW road rules.

“We have around 350 road rules in NSW and they are there to save lives,” Mr Henskens said.

“Road Rules Awareness Week is a great time for everyone to think about their driving, and aims to help improve the community’s knowledge of the road rules including commonly misunderstood rules.

"It’s important that all road users – motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists – know, understand and follow the road rules correctly to keep everyone safe on our roads.”

Mr Henskens said that, last year, 392 people lost their lives on NSW roads and every 41 minutes someone is either killed or seriously injured. He stressed that everybody has a role to play in bringing down the road toll.

“We know that human error is a large factor in crashes so it’s critically important that all drivers are fully aware of the rules, obey the signs and keep an eye out when on the road,” Mr Henskens said.

“Often it can be the most straightforward rules that people find confusing. For example, who gives way at a roundabout? Or where and when you can legally and safely cross the road?

“This week is the perfect opportunity to remind yourself of the answers to those questions and any others you may have.”

Road Rules Awareness Week runs from 26 February to 4 March. For more information on road rules visit: http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/safety-rules/road-rules/index.html