Plan properly to ensure safety during long journeys

The first long weekend for the year is around the corner and as many citizens will once again embark on a long journey during the Easter holidays at the end of the month it is advised that they start planning their route soonest and have their vehicles checked to ensure a safe trip.
Planning the journey
According to information on the Arrive Alive website planning the route to your holiday destination and giving yourself enough time to reach it, is vital. Use a GPS navigation tool or a road atlas to plan your trip in advance.
The saying that the shortest route is the one you know, should always be applied and for peace of mind, try to stick to major routes or toll roads. If you are going to travel on the back roads identify the towns along the route and what the distance is between them to avoid getting stranded without fuel.
Plan rest stops along the way and if you are travelling with kids it is a great way to let them know when and where you will be stopping. Always ensure that a friend or family member, who is not travelling with you, is aware of the route that you are planning to travel. Ideally you should also update them on your progress of the journey and let them know when you have reached your destination safely. Try to avoid driving after dark if possible and expect others not to be as obedient to the law as yourself.
Vehicle Fitness /Roadworthiness
Make sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before departure. Do not assume and rather double check all lights and indicators, windscreen wipers, brakes, steering, exhaust system and tyres for possible faults.
Driver Fitness / Driver Fatigue
Driver fitness is just as important as the fitness of your vehicle. Have a good rest before you embark on your journey and take safety breaks every two hours or 200 km.
One of the biggest contributors to fatalities on the roads are drivers who operate under the influence of alcohol. If you intend to consume alcohol make alternative arrangements so you will not be behind the wheel.
Remain alert at all times and avoid driver distractions such as cellular conversations and texting while driving. Be responsible with seatbelt wearing and always see that everyone in the car is wearing theirs.
Defensive driving behaviour
Drive defensively as risk takers are collision makers. Avoid all distractions and keep both eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel. Be visible by driving with the vehicle’s headlights on – even during the day. Headlights should be dipped well before an approaching vehicle is within range of the main beam. Stay within the speed limit at all times and be especially alert when approaching traffic lights, intersections and level crossings.
Only overtake when it is absolutely safe to do so and maintain at least a three second following distance – this distance should be increased at night, in foggy or rainy conditions and when the road is wet.
Avoid driving in the blind spot of other vehicles and be courteous towards fellow road users – keep your temper and resist the temptation to retaliate. Be cautious when driving alone and avoid stopping in remote areas.

Story: RC Myburgh
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