Safe Driving
When you are behind the wheel of a car, alone or with passengers, driving safely should always be your main concern. We are more distracted than ever, so it is crucial to know the basics of safe driving and practice them every time you are on the road.
These are some of the things to consider which could affect yours and other’s safety on the road.
Distractions when Driving
Staying focused and concentrating when on the road is vital to keeping yourself and others safe. Just a small lapse in attention can cause accidents and put lives at risk.
Examples of distractions on the road include:
Phone alerts / notification sounds
Making phone calls
Disturbance from passengers in your vehicle
Using/ listening to a Sat Nav or GPS
Pets in your vehicle
Applying make-up
You should actively avoid anything that you think could distract you on your journey. As a huge number of road accidents are caused by using mobile phones, make sure yours is on silent or do-not-disturb before you set off.
When a driver’s ability to drive safely is compromised
Even the safest drivers can face scenarios where their ability to drive safely is affected. Being aware of those factors is important, to ensure all steps are taken to stay safe on the road.
Factors that affect safety include tiredness, some medical conditions, alcohol consumption and drug use.
Qualities of a safe driver
Safe drivers share certain skills and qualities which help them ensure their own and other’s safety. Some of these qualities include:
Patience
Keeping to speed limits and being patient with other drivers is a great quality of a safe driver. Impatience can lead to road rage, aggression and accidents.
Consideration for others
As above, making sure you show good driving etiquette when it comes to other drivers, pedestrians and cyclists will ensure you keep your cool and drive safely.
Fast reaction times
Hazards may be out of your control, but the speed of your reaction directly affects how dangerous the results are. Drinking, drug taking and tiredness affect your reaction times and can lead to accidents which can be fatal.
Knowledge of the road
Knowing your road signs, the rules of the road and all other Highway Code knowledge will ensure you’re obeying the rules of the road.
Its your responsibility to stay safe when driving. However, as long as your are sensible, aware and knowledgeable of the rules of the road, you can protect yourself and your passengers from harm for many journeys to come.
Our distance learning courses teach essential driving skills for your Duke Of Edinburgh Award. Sign up today or get in touch with us for more information.