Ensuring the safety of your loved ones and yourself is a vital part of the Easter long weekend.
Phrases such as ‘Easter carnage’ and worse serve to highlight the importance of taking every necessary precaution to reduce the statistics associated with this Christian celebration period.
Below are some road safety tips for those leaving town this long weekend:
– Obey the rules of the road and carry your driver’s licence with you.
– Plan the route to your holiday destination and allow enough time to get there, taking into account any delays or road works.
– Check your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before departure – examine all lights, indicators, windscreen wipers, brakes, the steering, the exhaust system and tyres for any faults.
– Do not overload your vehicle, as this plays a factor in braking and stability.
– Avoid driving after dark if possible.
– Have a good rest before you embark on your journey and have an energy drink or cooldrink handy.
– Take a break from driving every two hours or 200 kilometres.
– Never drink and drive – you will place many others’ lives at risk.
– Try to identify potentially dangerous drivers and pedestrians on and alongside the road, and stay clear.
– Drive with your lights on, for the purpose of visibility.
– Dip your headlights well before an approaching vehicle is blinded by your high beams.
– Always wear your seatbelt and ensure everyone in the car is wearing theirs.
– Drive defensively, taking into account others might not be as responsible as you.
– Stay within the speed limit at all times – speed kills.
– Only overtake when it is absolutely safe to do so. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.
– Do not use your cellphone or other distracting device while driving.
– Maintain at least a two-second following distance, more at night, in fog or rain, or when the road is wet.
– Be courteous to fellow road users.
Adapted from the Arrive Alive website; visit www.arrivealive.co.za for more articles or information.
