Beware the 5 drivers of the road apocalypse

1 685 people died on South Africa’s roads during the 2021 December holidays, with the 5 main contributors to the death rate being distracted driving, alcohol, fatigue, speeding and disregarding road conditions.

Human error accounts for at least 8 out of every 10 road accidents in South Africa. So, if you’re heading off on holiday this month, make sure you follow these simple safety tips to ensure you arrive in 1 piece and return home safely, says Wynand van Vuuren, client experience partner at insurer King Price.

Get your car ready

Check the tyres, top up the fluids and do some general maintenance to make sure your car is ready for a long trip. “Poorly maintained cars raise the risks of accidents significantly. Rather be safe than sorry,” says Van Vuuren.

Avoid distractions

It’s estimated that texting while driving increases your chances of an accident 23 times. Even seemingly harmless behaviours like reading a WhatsApp message can lead to disaster. “Say it takes 5 seconds to read a message. If you’re driving at 90km/h, that’s like driving the length of a rugby field with your eyes closed,” says Van Vuuren.

Driving distractions aren’t limited to messages. They include any activity that diverts your attention from driving, like talking on the phone, applying makeup, eating, drinking and smoking, and adjusting your radio or navigation system. Eyes on the road. Hands on the wheel. Focus.

Don’t drive tired

Fatigue is a major contributor to accidents on our roads. “Get enough sleep the night before your trip. If you find yourself yawning while driving, pull over and take a break. Or take turns behind the wheel,” says Van Vuuren.

Drive defensively

Watch out for other drivers and people next to the road. Jaywalking is a massive cause of road deaths: the AA estimates a third of all road fatalities are pedestrians. “Be alert to road conditions and other road users’ and pedestrians’ unpredictable behaviour,” says Van Vuuren.

Make sure your insurance is up to date

Before you leave, check your car insurance cover to ensure that you have both third party and comprehensive cover. Also, check whether your policy offers accident, roadside and medical assistance, in case anything happens along the way. King Price clients can have the additional back-up of code red, which allows you to call for armed response or emergency responders if you feel threatened or have an emergency.

“Buckle up. Don’t drink and drive. And stay alert. It’s a jungle out there,” says Van Vuuren.