How to ensure you and your passengers remain safe
It is important to drive safely, not only for yourself but for your passengers and other drivers. Here are a few tips to ensure that you and your passengers remain safe on the road.
Speed
Always stick to the speed limit; road safety laws are there to protect you and your passengers. Drivers are more likely to be injured in a collision when a vehicle is travelling fast as speed is at the core of most road safety problems.
A few tips:
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Regularly check your speedometer as you drive.
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Know the limits – take notice of signs.
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Assume lamp posts mean 30mph.
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Remember speed limits are a maximum and not a target.
Seatbelt
Wearing a seatbelt will keep passengers travelling in a car secure and prevent them being thrown through the windscreen during a crash.
Drink Driving
Never drink and drive, as drinking impairs your judgement and slows your reaction time. It can also cause blurred vision and loss of consciousness.
Avoid Distractions
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Mobile phones: using your phone whilst driving will distract you and take eyes off the road. It is important to put your phone on silent or switch it off unless you're using a hands free kit. Even then, we advise not to take or make ANY phone calls in case you become distracted.
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Children and pets: children and pets can be potential distraction; it is important they are strapped in at all times with secured seatbelts and that pets are contained in a carrier. Children who are tall enough to wear a seatbelt should always sit in the back of the car.
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Loud music: loud music can distract you from the road and may mask other sounds you need to be aware of.
Don’t Tailgate
Tailgating is a primary reason for rear end crashes. It is important to keep at least a three second distance between you and the car in front – a little bit of patience can go a long way!
Be Prepared
Regularly check your car’s lights, tyre pressures, brakes, water, screenwash and oil levels. Make sure you always have a first aid kit in the car and have sufficient breakdown cover and insurance to protect you if you are ever involved in an incident.
