Stay safe when driving at night

Putting your safety first while driving at night should be your top priority. Not only are there safety concerns about crime after the sun sets, but you share the road with tired and possibly drunk drivers, so you must be even more cautious.

Late-night activities and summer usually go hand in hand, especially as the holidays approach. You can increase your safety by being cautious when driving at night.

Plan your route and give it to a family member or close friend before you leave. To keep on course, use GPS navigation apps. Try remaining on well-lit main routes and avoid detours through uncharted or possibly dangerous areas. Wear your seatbelt and lock your doors.

Observing the traffic laws is crucial for your safety and the safety of other drivers, whether driving during the day or at night. Steer clear of cellphones when driving, observe the speed limit, and increase your following distance.

Even if you have the right of way, use caution when approaching intersections. Many drivers are nervous at night and may run red lights.

Slow down, even if the traffic light is green, to ensure you have looked both ways before moving forward. If a red light appears ahead, decelerate and approach the stop line cautiously.

It is common knowledge that thieves target stationary cars at intersections. Ensure the doors are locked, the windows are up, and you have enough room between you and the car in front of you to make a swift getaway if needed. Pay attention to any pedestrians on the street, particularly in dimly lit places.

Properly maintaining your car is essential when driving at night. Ensure the headlights, taillights, and indicators work.

Ensure your windscreen wipers, tyres, and brakes all function correctly by checking them regularly. These deteriorated parts are covered by a maintenance plan, along with all necessary repairs and certain unforeseen malfunctions.

You might feel secure knowing a maintenance plan covers all wear and tear parts, and you won’t be surprised by the unexpected costs when these components need replacing.

SA has a high crime rate, so driving at night calls for increased vigilance and safety measures. Be aware of the most recent hotspots for hijackings and criminal tactics to lower the danger when you are driving. When driving, safety should always come first.

• Information from MotorHappy