What you need to know to avoid an accident

With the increasing number of drivers and vehicles on the roads, it is inevitable that the number of risks on the road will increase too. Road users are constantly exposed to the possibility of being involved in an accident and although it can happen to anyone and at any time, there are ways in which you can try and avoid it.

With the increasing number of drivers and vehicles on the roads, it is inevitable that the number of risks on the road will increase too. Road users are constantly exposed to the possibility of being involved in an accident and although it can happen to anyone and at any time, there are ways in which you can try and avoid it.

• Stay off of your mobile devices.
  As handy and convenient as these devices can be, use while driving should be avoided at all times as they are a dangerous distraction. In fact, a motor vehicle accident is 23 times more likely to happen if using a mobile device while driving as the distraction will prevent you from identifying dangerous situations and won’t allow you to react appropriately or in time to avoid a collision. Switch off your mobile data or rather use a hands-free device if you must, to avoid distractions.
• Stick to the speed limit.
  Speed limits have purpose; they are tried and tested and put in place to protect all road users. Sticking to the speed limit will ensure that you have ample time to react to potential hazards and thus increasing your chances of avoiding a collision  
• Maintain a safe following distance.
  Tailgating is extremely dangerous as your chances of stopping in time to avoid a collision diminishes, especially at high speed. Even when in a hurry, don’t rush – consider the safety of other road users and rather arrive alive.
• Don’t get mad!
  Road rage is a real threat. Stay calm and avoid reacting to raging drivers to not further aggravate the situation.  
• Take the scenic route.
  Try find an alternative route in areas where construction is taking place. This will help you avoid traffic and keep you safe from any construction debris that could double-up as road hazards that may harm you or your vehicle.
• Don’t drink and drive!
  Despite hearing it enough times to not forget it, many drivers still do it. Driving under the influence of alcohol not only poses a risk to you, but to other road users as well. It is thus important that you remain sober and focused when behind the wheel – simply, don’t drink and drive!

It goes without saying that staying alert while driving can save you from a lot of frustrations, both physically and financially – it can even save your life.

Should you however not be able to avoid a collision, be sure to use the  Miway App to help guide you step-by-step on what to do at the scene of the accident and after, to aid your insurance claim. You don’t even need to be a Miway client to benefit from this feature, simply download the app and enjoy #insurancefreedom.