MOTORING NEWS - The Automobile Association offers a few basic tips to motorists who drive on highways, especially novice drivers who may be unfamiliar with the roads:
Know the rules of the road. Rules are there to protect everyone. It's important that we all obey them. Understand the markings on the road. Know when you may, or may not change lanes. Always indicate your intentions by using your indicators - that's what they are there for.
Learn to operate your car at low speeds. Highway driving is not always about fast driving. Often 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 rear-view mirror and side mirrors and your blind spots to ensure it is safe to join. Always use the indicators and enter the traffic at the same speed as flowing traffic. Driving too slowly or too fast can both cause problems, so always be alert.
Put away all electronic devices. Driving on a highway requires your full attention. Do not be distracted by 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. 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. Make sure you leave enough room to slow down and stop if necessary.
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. Remember that everyone makes mistakes (including you) - so be courteous and considerate of other drivers.
Always wear your seatbelt. Just because highway traffic is slow, it doesn’t mean that you can undo the seatbelt. Remain safely buckled up throughout the journey. 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 cars in South Africa are insured. If you are in an accident, you have a 65% chance of having to foot the bill for any damages yourself. Investigate insurance options to cover yourself and the vehicle.
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