Britain has some of the busiest roads in the world, and some of the safest; however, we still see 59 people injured on our roads every day.
We are all responsible for our own safety and can keep ourselves, and others, safer on our busy roads by following a few simple rules.
Seatbelt/child seat
Always make sure that you have fastened your seatbelt and any other passengers’ belts in your car. Make sure all children travelling in a car use the correct car seat appropriate to their height and weight until they reach the age of 12 years, ensuring it is fitted correctly.
Weather
Always check the weather conditions before leaving on a long journey. If you are driving on snowy or icy roads, reduce your speed to 10mph or lower. Watch out for black ice, slowing down a couple of hundred feet before traffic lights and road junctions. Avoid tailgating and allow 100 yards between you and the car ahead. If you run into foggy conditions, switch on your fog light and pump your brakes a few times to alert the cars behind you.
Breakdown
Keep an emergency car kit close to hand and be prepared for roadside breakdowns; in addition, consider joining a roadside assistance programme.
Parking
Always park wisely, using a car park or a well-lit area if parking on the road.
Possessions/car alarm
Always put your possessions in the boot or lock them in the glove compartment; do not leave any items visible, as this will encourage car theft. The safest way to be sure of keeping your car safe is to fit a car alarm or vehicle tracking systems from a supplier such as http://www.vehicle-accessories.net/Vehicle-Tracking.
Phone
Never use your mobile phone when driving in the UK unless you are using a hands-free device. Not only is this illegal but also using a phone can be a distraction from driving safely.
Music
Listening to music with the volume turned high can encourage drivers to speed. Distracted drivers cannot maintain safety awareness.
Summer
Manage glare and heat by keeping your sunglasses handy, and use a sunshield beneath your windscreen when parked to stop your car’s interior overheating. Always carry a bottle of water to prevent dehydration.
Follow these guidelines when out and about on the roads to ensure you do not become another statistic.
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