Most motorists have embarked on long car trips from Pretoria to Cape Town and some have come to experience various dangers. It could be a good idea to be reminded about safety tips for such trips to ensure that all South African motorists are fully prepared for the journey ahead.1
What is meant by a long trip?1
A generally accepted standard is to break a journey every 2 hours or after 200 km. A long trip is when you are exceeding 300 km or 3 hours. The maximum limit any driver should travel in one day is 10 hours. Unfortunately, many South Africans exceed this, especially over Christmas or Easter, as they cannot afford to stay in a B & B along the way.
Do you understand the issues facing you when travelling long distances? 1
It’s vital to investigate the condition of road surfaces and whether you have experience negotiating, e.g., gravel roads. Driving alone is more dangerous as you can’t alternate with another driver. Travelling at night means your vision is limited to the length of the headlight beams at any one time. People, cattle, goats, and dogs could be crossing the road, especially when travelling through rural areas. If you are towing a trailer, do you know how to handle that, remembering that your stopping distance is longer than usual? Have you considered how you should physically prepare yourself before you leave? Lastly, can your car safely get there?
Drawing up a driving plan1
Thoroughly research the route you have chosen, noting the distance intervals between various garages for refuelling. Take note of changes in road structure, such as changing from double lane to single lane or even dirt roads. It’s best to use a GPS to avoid getting lost. But, if you lose signal, you will have to rely on a good map. If possible, try and obtain weather updates via radio or the Internet. Avoid travelling at night, as the risks are more significant compared to driving during the day.
Avoiding the risk of falling asleep behind the wheel1
When your eyes want to close while driving, don’t think you can control that by drinking strong coffee. If your brain wants to switch off, it will. Hence the importance of getting a good night’s sleep before taking off. If you’re going to fall asleep, stop at the nearest garage and ensure you have locked all the doors before closing your eyes. Don’t forget to do some exercise. Avoid a heavy meal as it can make you drowsy. Sharing driving is the best way always to have a ‘fresh’ driver behind the wheel.
What does sleepiness do? 1
It slows down your decision-making and judgement. Worst of all, when you fall asleep, it could prove fatal for you and your passengers.
Taking note of these tips will make your journey so much safer, but how well protected is your car from accidents? Are you looking for affordable car insurance? Get affordable car insurance with PMD that comes with fixed premiums* and a reduce to zero excess* and other great benefits. T’s and C’s apply.
Source:
1https://www.arrivealive.mobi/safety-advice-for-long-distance-driving
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
