Six tips for long distance driving
The best way to see South Africa in all its splendour is to hop in a car and travel the open road. While the goal is to reach your destination as fast and safely as possible, the journey itself should be enjoyable. You can ensure a smooth long-distance journey with these important tips
South African motorists frequently travel distances from inland provinces to the coast ranging from 500 to 1500 kilometres. A lengthy journey necessitates preparation, focus, and endurance to ensure everyone’s safety.
Before you embark on a lengthy journey, motus.cars has compiled a few tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe.
Tip 1: Plan ahead
You want your travel to be peaceful and pleasurable, so take the time to plan your itinerary and the roads you will take. You should be aware of the stop overs where you may obtain petrol, food, restrooms, and safe resting areas. If you are a true explorer, there are several fantastic South African treasures you should see when you are passing through. Information centres are your best friend, as they can lead you to the nation’s best-kept secrets and hidden gems.
Tip 2: Take frequent breaks
It can be tempting to drive nonstop for hours in order to reach your destination as quickly as possible, but according to a survey by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, your probability of getting involved in an automobile accident increases by one percent for every hour of sleep you lose.
Long-distance drivers are especially susceptible to experiencing microsleep, which is a brief period of unconsciousness corresponding to the onset of sleep or light sleep. Symptoms of weariness include yawning, painful or heavy eyes, and sluggish reaction time. When you begin to recognise these indications, carefully pull over and take a break. Some safe-driving experts have proposed that a motorist should not exceed 10 hours of driving each day. Every two hours, you should stop for at least 15 minutes.
Tip 3: Share the driving
Fatigue-related crashes are more likely to occur when the driver is alone; therefore, if you can share the drive, you should. Ensure that all drivers are well rested before you depart and devise a schedule for when you will need to exchange drivers. If you will be sharing the driving, all drivers must be insured under your motor insurance policy.
Top 4: Don’t rely on cruise control alone
Although cruise control can make a long journey more tolerable, driver indifference can lead to laziness and a loss of focus. If you intend to use cruise control, be sure to frequently assume physical control of the car.
Tip 5: keep an eye out for animals
South Africa is home to numerous species, including unsupervised cattle. Cows can weigh 450–1,800 kg and reach heights of 1.6-1.8 m. You can imagine the damage that an encounter with a cow may inflict on a vehicle.
Generally, animals are more active between dark and dawn, so you should avoid travelling during these times. However, keep in mind that wildlife is equally active during daylight hours, so you must always remain vigilant. If you encounter cattle near or on the road, you should slow down and honk your horn. The loud boom may assist in removing them from the roadway.
Tip 6: Obey traffic & road safety regulations
Following the laws may seem simple, but the accident statistics on th roadways speak volumes. Remember to always buckle up, ensure kiddos are in car seats, eliminate all distractions and observe the rules of the road. Be considerate and respectful to other motorists.
Summary
Despite the best planning, there may be unforeseen events and emergency scenarios, so drivers must take additional care. These tips will help you stay safe when driving for extended periods of time.
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