South African roads generally pose a significant danger to any motorist. Never mind the great risk of a car crash, but these roads have many crime hot spots, where criminals lurk to do violence. So how can we best manage such a situation? Read on and find out more about driving tips to keep women safe.1
Maintain a full tank1
People should not let their cars run out of fuel. As a person driving on your own, you cannot afford to be stranded on the side of the road due to possible crime and other hazards such as other road vehicles.
Know where you are going1
Do not only rely on your GPS, because it has no information on any currently dangerous areas. So, it can take you straight through the middle of one, thus exposing you to great risk. Studying a map carefully before embarking on your trip will give you the confidence to find your destination. Most importantly, it will minimise any severe risk of getting lost.
Keep a cell phone on you at all times1
Besides keeping it charged, ensure you have all the emergency numbers installed on your cell phone, including the number of your insurer’s 24/7 roadside assistance and towing service. Beware of those areas where you are likely not able to receive a signal.
When you are forced to stop1
If for any reason your car decides to stop on the side of the road, keep your doors locked and windows closed or slightly open if air-conditioning is lacking. Immediately phone for assistance, and always ask for identification when a tow truck driver arrives. All valuable items must be out of sight and stored in the boot.
Do you physically check your car at the garage? 1
It’s better not to stay in your car while the attendant does everything. Check that the oil and coolant levels are satisfactory, and that the car is filled up with the correct fuel type. While travelling, monitor the dashboard so that you will have enough time to get to a garage as soon as possible if a problem is beginning to develop.
Never stop for anyone1
There may be people that suddenly drive alongside your car, pointing to your wheels. Even if you are aware of something being wrong with the car, but it doesn’t seem serious at that stage, continue to drive to the nearest garage. Do not stop and never stop to give anyone a lift.
Share your driving plans with someone1
Especially when driving alone, always let a loved one or friend know which route you are going to take as well as your estimated time of arrival. Be in the habit to inform them as soon as you have arrived. If for any reason, you are stranded along the side of the road without a cell phone signal, your family or friends will still be able to find you. In addition, some insurers enable their clients to track their cars.
It can be a matter of life or death when stranded somewhere, and how fabulous it is to be able to call on roadside assistance and a towing service immediately. Make sure you have this included in your policy. Why not call on PMD, who offer such services as part of their affordable car insurance products?
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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.