According to ArriveAlive, there are 700-1100 car accidents that result in death every month in South Africa. This doesn’t even include accidents that cause injury to or damage to vehicles. It is a good idea to have car insurance. However, it is best to avoid any accidents.
Speed kills
Many people believe they are invincible in their cars. This is why many people drive faster than the speed limit. Speed significantly increases the chance of an accident. You could lose control of your car and you may not be able to react quickly to any other vehicle, such as an accident or another car slowing down due to obstruction. Driving over the speed limit, no matter how sharp your reflexes may be, is not a smart move. You are putting yourself and other motorists at risk.
Women’s car insurance tends to be more affordable than men’s because they are more likely to keep to the speed limit.
Use your indicator
It can make a loud, annoying sound that can drive people crazy if they’ve been stuck in traffic for a while. Your indicator is there for good reason. It is vital to use your indicator when turning corners but even more so when changing lanes. Even if nobody is following you, it’s important to use your indicator. This will allow other drivers to use their brakes in the event that you forget to check your blind spot or speed up and are unable to see.
Keep both hands on the wheel
It can be very easy to drive on autopilot if you have many years’ experience driving. People often drive with one hand, especially when driving in heavy traffic. However, this can prove to be dangerous. If you don’t have both hands on the wheel, you will be less able to react quickly and avoid an accident. You can improve your reaction time by driving with both your hands and remaining alert. This will allow you to be more responsive in an emergency or unexpected pothole.
Be kind to other drivers
This is a very simple rule that most people are aware of and can help you avoid an accident. You will be more attentive to the other drivers if you are kind and courteous. You will be safer on the roads if you are more alert than someone who may take advantage of you and drive in front of your car without you looking or indicating.
Don’t drink and drive
This is a simple suggestion, but it has to be made due to the high number of drunk driving accidents. The danger of drinking alcohol is that it limits your driving abilities and puts others in danger. You can reduce your chances of being in an accident by not drinking.
It is obvious that being alert, following the rules of the road, and being kind to other drivers are the keys to avoiding accidents. You will improve your driving skills and safety on the roads by following these five tips. This could even help you to lower your vehicle insurance premium.