10 safety tips for driving and drivers during holidays

We all need to master these 10 safety tips for driving and drivers during holidays, which is also important for other road users like you and me.

The Christmas and new year festivity days are important holidays, during which much travel near and far. At the time of the year, road safety is important and everyone’s business if we are to stay safe and reach our destinations to meet love ones, family and friends.

Drivers, pedestrians, passengers and all other road users must be concerned about the safety of everyone, including themselves.

10 safety tips for driving and drivers during holidays

#1. Don’t drink and drive. 

This is like the first of the ten commandments of driving. Do not take in alcohol and drive because you will end up putting many lives in danger behind their steer.

If you realize your driver is drunk or tipsy, know that your life could be in danger.

Stay calm and encourage him or her to park, for instance so that you can attend to nature’s call.

Once he stops, get another person to drive or get on board another car or report to the police.

#2.  Make sure the car is ready.

Ensure that as a driver or car owner, you practice good maintenance.

Ensure your car is checked for any issues and get them resolved.

Faulty cars put on our roads can create serious problems and even death should they involve in an accident.

#3. Map your route

Traffic is intense during holiday travels, and so learn to plan your routes before you take off in an attempt to avoid the traffic. Know the weather conditions projected for the day or week, and listen to radio programmes that provide updates on traffic situations so that you plan your trips. Leave home early or later in the day or at night to beat the traffic and drive carefully.

#4. Buckle up!

As a driver, your seat belt is not for fun. Make sure you wear them and let your passengers do the same. Ensure you and your passengers are properly restrained in seat belts and car safety seats.

#5. Avoid fatigue.

Do not drive when tired. Do well to get a good night sleep before you drive the next day. Take regular breaks. You do not need to get to drive too fast all because you want to get to the destination early, and you stop at important stations to cool down and relax a few minutes. This will do you a lot of good. If you are tired, pull off the road to a rest area.

READ: Easy Steps To Replace Lost Driver’s Licence In Ghana

#6. Have an emergency plan.

Do not forget to have your phone and the charge along with you as you drive. In case of any emergency, you can make calls. This will mean, you should also have enough credit on your phone and ensure the phone is well powered before starting the journey or charge along as you travel. Keep the contact information for emergency roadside assistance handy.

#7. Do not text while driving and minimize cell phone use.

Using the phone while driving is a very dangerous practice and an offense as far as road traffic regulations are concerned.

Instead of fidgeting with your phone, concentrate on your driving. Park and receive or make calls or use a hand free. Tell those calling to call in an hour or two or later when you are driving.  Make very good use of the hands-free device if you need to use your cell phone.

#8. Keep a safe following distance.

When driving this festive season, do well to allow ample time to react to the traffic around you. If someone is tailgating you, allow them to pass. Don’t try to compete with impatient and aggressive drivers. This is very important. You do not lose anything, letting him or her pass.

#9. Watch your speed, kill the speed before it kills you.

Do not allow the festive season’s excitements eat into your head while behind the steer.  Do not over speed, drive according to approve speed limits and practice safety driving.  Start your journey early to avoid the temptation of over speeding.

#10. Remain calm.

If you feel stressed or irritable, take some deep breaths and stay calm. Don’t drive with road rage – This compromises the safety of yourself and the people around you.

READ: Learn How to Drive With The Best Driving Learning Apps

Bonus safety tip:  Keep an eye on children on board.

Family travels will often have kids on board, whether you are on board a private car or public transport. Keep a close eye on kids. Kids should not sit in front or at the windows. If they have to sit at such places, widows and doors should be locked tight. Kids should also be advised not to attempt to open windows or doors.

We hope this auto article on 10 safety tips for driving and drivers during holidays have been very useful. Do well to share the post with love ones. Let us remain safe.

Finally note that the 10 safety tips for driving and drivers  can be used daily and not just during festive season driving.