As we go into the Festive Season, many of us will travel to our favourite holiday spots, return home, and visit family or friends. As much as we cannot wait to ditch the daily grind and get on the road, we must do everything we can to travel safely this December.
According to Fikile Mbalula, Minister of Transport, a total of 1,685 fatalities were recorded during the 2021 festive period, which is a 14% increase compared to 2020. To decrease the statistics this year, we must ensure we do all we can to keep ourselves and others safe on the road.
Here are some tips on how to travel this Festive Season safely:
1. Prepare
Before starting anything else, ensure your vehicle is ready for the trip. Consider having your car serviced by a qualified mechanic. Prepare for your trip by planning the safest routes and rest stops every 2 hours to avoid getting tired while driving. Ensure you also sleep at least 7 hours the night before you travel so that you are more alert and refreshed.
2. Buckle up
Seatbelts are essential for every passenger, no matter where they are seated. Statistics show that wearing a seatbelt makes all the difference in protecting from possible injury should an accident occur. Little kids should be strapped in their approved car seats and should not be unbuckled for any reason while driving. To reduce boredom and restlessness among the kids, plan car activities before the trip that will keep them busy or bring tablets or phones with their favourite movies to watch.
3. Defensive driving
According to Arrive Alive, Defensive driving is the practice of maintaining an awareness of road and weather conditions, other vehicles, road users and potentially hazardous situations and then taking steps to prevent becoming the cause of or becoming involved in a road crash. Always apply the defensive driving principle and adhere to the speed limit; driving too fast or too slowly can be a potential hazard. It is up to each of us to be proactive and reduce road accidents.
4. Drive during the day
Many people prefer driving at night because it is quiet and fewer cars are on the road. But stats show that driving at night is much more dangerous because of decreased visibility and diminished speed/distance judgement. The peacefulness of driving at night can be alluring, but it is better to be safe than sorry.
5. Don’t drink and drive
Statistics indicate that about 50% of road deaths in South Africa are alcohol-related. It is, therefore, imperative to avoid alcohol before or during driving.
6. Avoid distractions
Try to avoid all distractions when driving. Avoid using your phone while driving; this will cause a lapse in concentration, putting you and others at risk. Instead, install a hands-free kit in your car. To avoid fatigue, stop at least every 2 hours for stretching and resting. Also, avoid eating and drinking while driving. Fumbling with napkins, wrappers, and beverages means you’re not watching the road. Instead, consider eating and drinking beverages on your 2-hourly breaks.
7. Plan your route beforehand
Before going on your trip, knowing the route and the distance you will be taking is essential. If you are unfamiliar with the route, you can use a map, Google maps (maps.google.co.za), or the navigator in your car. Be cautious when driving alone, avoid stopping in remote areas, and be alert when you are in an area with a risk of criminal activities such as hijacking or smash-and-grab theft. Also, let a friend or loved one know where you are going, your route, and your estimated arrival time.
The Festive Season is here, and most of us cannot wait to hit the road. As exciting as that sounds, we must be alert when driving to avoid unnecessary accidents on the road. Be proactive this December and do all you can to ensure you arrive at your destination safely. Kelston Motor Group wishes you a safe and happy journey this holiday season; may you enjoy a wonderful time with your family and friends.
