Safe Driving Tips

Make sure that your car is serviced regularly, as per the manufacturers’ specifications and more-so, when the vehicle out of warranty. When talking to your mechanic, ask him to look at things like the battery, anti-freeze/coolant, the radiator, damaged hoses, wiper blades, heater/defroster, all electrical components, all lights or any another problem that could result in a nasty experience. Experiencing a breakdown is bad enough, it’s much worse in unsafe areas.

Regardless of the season, all tyres should be checked regularly, this includes the spare tyre. Also make sure that the spare, jack and wheel spanner are in place. Check inflation every time you refuel or at least once a week and when the tyres are cold. Check the tyre for damage, look closely at tread depth and also the age of the tyre.

It is always a good idea to study a vehicle’s handbook before driving it. So many, unsafe and unnecessary inconveniences could be avoided if drivers just familiarized themselves with their vehicle’s operational requirements.

Keep a rudimentary tool box with at least some basic tools that could assist in getting you out of a fix. The tool box could also include a tow rope, torch with batteries that are working, insulation or duct tape, warning tri-angles, puncture repair kit, battery charging cables and the like. It’s always advisable to include a cheap reflective vest and a simple first aid kit to be used in emergencies.

When getting into the car, follow a safety protocol: get in, lock the doors, buckle up, adjust your seat, the mirrors, start the ignition, check all the warning lights, ensure you are familiar with the heater/defroster operations and observe carefully before moving off.

On the road, travel within the speed limits ensuring that maximum visibility is attained at all times through all the windows and interior and exterior mirrors. If visibility is poor, that is, less than 100 metres, switch on your headlamps on dipped beam mode.

In adverse driving conditions increase your following distance to four or more seconds. This will allow for better reaction times and longer stopping distances.

Be aware of pedestrians, stray animals, reckless taxi drivers and potholes.

Plan your long journeys carefully, by checking weather forecasts and traffic reports that may alert you to any impending danger. Don’t rush and allow plenty of time for any hazards that may cause a delay.