With Spring ushering in a season of festivities and outdoor adventures, this also means more vehicles on the road and a greater risk of accidents.
With Spring ushering in a season of festivities and outdoor adventures, this also means more vehicles on the road and a greater risk of accidents.
It’s a good time to recap some essential road safety tips:
Check your vehicle’s condition before you depart
Ensuring your vehicle is in good condition is just as vital as practising safe driving. Check your car’s oil, water, and fuel levels, and confirm that your spare tyre is properly inflated and puncture-free. It’s also useful to have a few basic tools on hand such as a jack, jump starter kit, first aid kit and warning triangle.
Stay alert and take regular breaks
Even seasoned drivers can lose concentration on extended excursions. Plan to take regular breaks, stopping every one to two hours to stretch your legs and have a rest, rehydrate and have a snack if you’re the designated driver. Staying alert is crucial, especially on highways where you’ll be sharing the road with large vehicles, buses, and trucks.
Be mindful of other drivers
Driving safely isn’t just about your own habits; you need to be aware of others on the road too. Reckless or drunk drivers pose significant risks, especially during busy periods. Keep aware of your surroundings by regularly checking your rear and side mirrors, even on long stretches of road. This helps you anticipate potential hazards and drivers behaving unpredictably.
Ensure your insurance is up to date
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself on the road is to have comprehensive vehicle insurance and portable possessions cover to ensure your valuables are protected as you go. Before setting off, review your policy to understand what you’re covered for. In the event of an accident, insurance can prevent significant financial loss, making it a crucial investment.
