Experiencing traffic jams has become a way of life for South African city-dwelling motorists. Even though they are cumbersome, there are ways to improve the experience by adjusting your attitude and driving skills. Without the latter two, driving in heavy traffic can become a severe hazard to you and others. Read on and find out how to drive safer under such circumstances.1
Preparing before driving 1
Before driving off, decide you are going to drive defensively and safely. Attitude determines your altitude. Sleep well the night before because driving in heavy traffic strains your body. Besides, it would help to stay alert as all the moving objects in front of you are forever changing their positions and speed. Find out from a traffic app on your cell phone which routes are heavily congested so that you can find a better alternative.
Other things to look out for on the road1
Check the weather to avoid, for instance, a flash flood. It is better to time your departure correctly by being either in front or behind a traffic peak. To prevent unnecessary rushing, work out a reasonable estimated time of arrival. If it looks like you cannot meet your deadline, inform someone at the destination instead of rushing to get there on time. Be in contact with traffic updates on the radio or cell phone.
What does it mean to drive defensively? 1
Defensive driving minimizes danger on the roads. Your attitude should be one of letting the other driver overtake you instead of you “trying to prove a point.” If someone is tailgating your car, move to another slower lane if you can. Avoid staying stubbornly in your lane just because you are travelling at the speed limit. Always stay alert while driving because there are many reckless drivers on our roads. When you want to change lanes, indicate, and then move slowly across, checking the mirrors. Make it a practice to effect gradual changes so that other drivers have enough time to notice you and adjust.
Don’t drive too fast 1
So many drivers seem to be in a desperate hurry to reach their destination. If possible, travel at a reasonable, manageable speed so that you have enough time to respond to any crisis. It may seem you are gaining by weaving in and out of lanes, but you are increasing the risk of a collision.
Avoid tailgating1
Drivers tailgate other cars when in a hurry, which could be their way of urging the driver in front to move out of the way or to speed up. Tailgating is very dangerous as you are not leaving enough following distance. If the front car suddenly brakes, you won’t have enough time to stop. Are you sticking to the 3-second rule? You can do this by fixing your eyes on a traffic sign way ahead of you and counting how many seconds it takes to reach it.
Travelling by car is all about safety, but how safe is your car with the cover you have purchased? If you need more information about affordable car insurance cover, contact PMD.
Source:
1https://www.arrivealive.mobi/safe-driving-in-heavy-traffic
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.
