AS PEOPLE continue to hit the roads this festive season, they are reminded to be cautious.
In the 2021 December holidays, 1 685 people died on Mzansi’s roads, according to Wynand van Vuuren, a client experience partner at insurer King Price.
Van Vuuren said the main five contributors to the death rate in the previous year were distracted driving, alcohol, fatigue, speeding and disregarding road conditions.
“Poorly maintained cars raise the risks of accidents significantly. Rather be safe than sorry,” Van Vuuren said in a statement.
And for this reason, Van Vuuren has compiled the following tips to help motorists arrive in one piece and return home safely:
- Get your car ready
Check the tyres, top up the fluids and do some general maintenance.
- Avoid distractions
It is estimated that texting while driving increases your chances of an accident 23 times. Driving distractions include talking on the phone, applying make-up, eating, drinking and smoking.
- Don’t drive tired
Fatigue is a major contributor to accidents on our roads.
- Drive defensively
Watch out for other drivers and people next to the road.
- Make sure your insurance is up to date
Before you leave, check your car insurance cover to ensure that you have both third-party and comprehensive cover.
“Buckle up. Don’t drink and drive, and stay alert. It’s a jungle out there,” Van Vuuren added.
