ROAD SAFETY
Stay alert & safe It's the time of fun in the sun, so more people are venturing out. With busy roads and destinations to reach, follow these tips to help keep safe. By Adv. Johan Jonck, Arrive Alive
Gear up for your journey •
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Obey the rules of the road and always have your driver's licence. Use a GPS navigation or road atlas, and give yourself enough time to reach the destination. Do not get stranded without fuel – plan ahead where you will refuel. Plan rest stops along the way. Ensure that a friend/family member is aware of the route that you are planning to travel. Ideally, update them on your progress and alert them when you have reached your destination safely. Try to avoid driving after dark.
30 | December 2021
Be roadworthy •
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Take your vehicle for a full check before embarking on your holiday travels. Check that all lights, indicators, windscreen wipers, brakes, steering, exhaust system and tyres are examined for faults. Do not overload your vehicle.
Stay alert • • •
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Rest before your journey. Take safety breaks every two hours or 200km. Do not drink and drive. If you intend to consume alcohol, make alternative arrangements so you will not be behind the wheel. Remain alert and avoid driver distractions such as cellular
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conversations, texting etc. Always wear your seat belt and ensure all passengers do likewise. Depending on age and weight, babies must be in a car seat, toddlers in a booster seat and older children must wear a seatbelt.
Defensive driving • •
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Drive defensively. Avoid all distractions, keep both eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel. Be visible by driving with your lights on. Headlights should be dipped well before an approaching vehicle is within range of the main beam. Stay within the speed limit.
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