We all have a part to play in making our roads a safer place. Below are some helpful hints and tips for becoming a safer driver. Click on any of the links below for more information on the topic.
- Always ensure your car is fully secured when left unoccupied for any period of time. Doors, windows, sunroof and boot should be closed and secure.
- At home, park your car in your garage, driveway or on the roadway in front of your home and make sure the area is well lit.
- When parking your car, keep personal possessions locked in the boot to ensure they do not attract attention.
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Accidents on the roads can easily be avoided if more caution and awareness is exercised by road users. Below are a list of tips on how you can be a more responsible and safer driver on the road- for yourself and others.
- Adhere to the speed limits at all times and slow down when necessary.
- It is against the law not to wear a seat belt on all car journeys; ensure they are being worn by both driver and passengers - even on the shortest journeys.
- It is your responsibility to never drink and drive. Even small amounts of alcohol affect your judgement and ability to drive.
- Be observant and watch out for pedestrians and cyclists on the road, especially on dark nights.
- Ensure you take adequate breaks when driving long distances, as fatigue is often one of the most preventable causes of accidents on our roads.
- Always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Allow more when driving in wet weather conditions.
- Ensure that your vehicle is serviced regularly so that it is road worthy. Regularly check your vehicle's oil, water and fuel levels and for any defects such as faulty lights or worn tyres.
- Always try to allow sufficient time for your journey. This helps to prevent the increased risks of speeding and overtaking dangerously. Impatience on the roads is a regular cause of road rage and accidents.
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Avoid the many problems of travelling in winter by planning ahead and ensuring that your car is serviced as often as the manufacturer recommends.
In addition to regular maintenance, ensure that:
- the radiator system is serviced and that anti-freeze is added if required.
- windshield-wiper fluid is replaced with a wintertime mixture.
- air pressure of the tyres is checked regularly and any worn tyres are replaced.
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Always try to avoid driving in poor conditions. If you must, please take the following precautions.
- Drive at a reduced speed and keep a safe distance from the car in front. If possible, allow more time for the journey so that there is no time pressure to reach your destination.
- Remember to always use your dipped headlights when driving in fog or hazy conditions.
- To avoid skidding, look out for potential skid hazards such as wet leaves, shady spots, black ice and frost (particularly on
bridges). Black ice is extremely dangerous on very cold nights on wet roads. Reduce speed as soon as you see a potential hazard.
- When driving through a flooded area, select a lower gear that will keep your engine revs high and your speed low. After having to pass through extremely deep waters, test your brakes to ensure that no damage has occurred.
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Ensure that your car is equipped with the following in the event of an emergency.
- First Aid Kit
- Jump Leads
- Road Maps
- Mobile phone
- Torch (with spare batteries)
- Emergency warning triangle
- De-icer and windshield scraper
- Tow rope
- Water
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