HEALTH AND SAFETY 31
Keep calm while driving . Driving on a highway can be stressful but it is vital that you remain as calm as possible during your journey . Also be confident on the road , and drive like you belong there . Remember , too , that if you constantly apply your brakes unnecessarily you will create a concertina effect of stopping behind you , which is one of the biggest causes of traffic snarl-ups .
Know your route . If you have never driven on a highway before , it ’ s important that you practice first . Pick a date and time when the road is likely to be least busy such as a weekend . Also listen to local traffic reports and monitor social media for possible problems on your route . If you are an experienced driver , have a back-up route if possible .
Know the rules of the road . Rules are there to protect everyone , and it ’ s important that we all obey them . Understand the markings on the road , and when you can , or cannot , change lanes . Also always indicate your intentions by using your indicators , that ’ s what they are there for .
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Don ’ t multitask while driving .
Learn to operate your car at low speeds . Highway driving is not always about fast driving ; many times , the road is congested , and cars travel at slow speeds . Make sure you know how to drive at a slow speed , and in start-stop traffic .
Enter the highway safely . When merging with traffic always check your rearview mirror and side mirrors and check your blind spots to ensure it is safe to join . Always use your indicators and enter the traffic at the same speed as flowing traffic . Driving too slowly or too fast can cause problems , so always be alert .
Put away all electronic devices . Driving on a highway requires your full attention . Do not be distracted with cell phones , or any other electronic devices . Be respectful of other drivers who also want to reach their destinations safely and on time . Texting while driving is extremely dangerous .
Keep a safe following distance . It ’ s not always possible , especially in bumper-to-bumper traffic , but maintain as safe a distance as possible from the car in front of you . Drive according to the conditions of the road and remember you are not there to enforce the rules of the road , only to obey them . Also be aware that you may travel some stretches with a clear road ahead of you , but suddenly find heavy traffic further up . Always be alert to this , and make sure you leave enough room to slow down and stop if necessary .
Always wear your seat belt . Just because highway traffic is slow it doesn ’ t mean that you can unlock your seat belt . Remain in your seat belt throughout your journey and remember that your passengers also need to be secured . It ’ s the law that toddlers under three must be in a car seat .
Insure yourself and your car . Only around 35 % of all cars in South Africa are insured . If you are in an incident there you have a 65 % chance of having to foot the bill for any damages yourself . Investigate insurance options and cover yourself and your vehicle . PA
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Being on the phone while driving is distracting .
Automobile Association ” Road safety remains the responsibility of road users . Lawlessness , or a failure to adhere to traffic rules , is a significant contributor to driving behaviours that endanger all road users . Everyone is required to obey traffic rules to ensure their own safety and the safety of others . Furthermore , law enforcement officials must also implement traffic laws at all times to ensure consistency .” - FEM
“ Do not be distracted with cell phones , or any other electronic devices . ”
References : FEM Health and Safety Magazine | Carmag |
November 2024 Volume 30 I Number 9 www . plumbingafrica . co . za