Driving is an essential part of life, but it’s also dangerous. Here are some tips to keep you safe on the road.
Slow Down
If you’re speeding, slow down. Speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents. It’s not just reckless behaviour; it’s also illegal. Driving too fast is the single most significant contributor to death and injury on NSW roads; speeding contributes to around 41 per cent of road fatalities and 24 per cent of serious injuries each year. Almost 150 lives are lost, and 1,270 people are seriously injured each year in NSW due to speeding.
Leave Early
Another tip is to leave early. This will give you plenty of time to prepare everything before heading out. You should also check your vehicle regularly to ensure no issues with your car.
Buckle Up Your Seatbelt
Seat belts save lives every day. However, they can only save lives if used, and many people still don’t buckle up. Wearing a seat belt while driving can reduce the risk of a fatal injury by 45%, making the difference between life and death. Remember to make sure your passengers use their seat belts too.
Keep Your Distance
It is vital to keep a safe distance between yourself and other vehicles when driving. This will allow you to see what is happening ahead and avoid accidents.
Don’t Text and Drive
If you are going to text while driving, DON’T! Don’t even think about it. If you need to make a phone call, be sure to use a hands-free device. It’s also essential to avoid distractions such as eating and drinking while you’re driving as well.
Get Your Rest
If you’re planning a road trip, it’s critical for your safety and the safety of your passengers that you are well-rested. Driving while you are tired can make your driving worse than if you have been drinking alcohol. If you feel tired or drowsy, even a 15-minute nap is long enough to lower your risk of a crash significantly.
Stay In Your Lane
The lane markings on the road are there for a good reason – stay in your lane! Always check your blind spots when preparing to change lanes or merge and keep your eyes on what’s in front of you.
Maintain Your Vehicle
A well-maintained car is critical for safety on the road. Get your car serviced by a reputable, independent mechanic like Sutherland Automotive. We even take the hassle out of the booking process by making it available online!
Keep Calm and Drive On
While anger is a normal human feeling, ‘road rage’ can be dangerous. The most important thing you can do is remain calm. Yes, even if someone cuts you off, don’t say thank you when you let them in or are tailgating you. A calm driver is a good driver!
Plan Ahead
If you’re heading somewhere for the first time or are unsure of the exact location you’re driving to, then plan ahead. Technology such as Google Maps is at our fingertips and will help you avoid confusion on the road if you get lost.
Inspect Your Vehicle
You don’t need to be a mechanic to check your tyre pressure, oil levels or other fluid levels. If you’re heading off on a longer trip, make sure you give your car a good inspection before heading off on the road.
