MONDAY, 6th MAY 2019: In South Africa, approximately 1 million road accidents are reported each year -many of which are tragically fatal. As local authorities and stakeholders continue to campaign for safer roads, motorists are encouraged to do what they can to help avert future incidents and fatalities.
â??With driver error the greatest contributor, many accidents could be avoided simply through behavioural changes â?? more specifically addressing risky and irresponsible driving and by good vehicle maintenanceâ? says Brett Ferreira, Franchise Executive, Motus Aftermarket Parts (MAP).
Ferreira offers road safety advice:
Avoid distracted driving
There has been a great deal of publicity aimed at the dangers of texting while driving. Yet any activity that diverts the driverâ??s attention endangers not only the driver but passengers and bystanders as well. Eating, applying make-up, or even talking on a cellphone hands-free are all distractions from the task at hand: keeping oneâ??s eyes â?? and mind â?? on the road.
Stick to the speed limit
Accidents can happen in a heartbeat, even in ideal driving conditions. Speed limits are carefully evaluated and assigned to improve response time; slower limits are imposed in high risk areas such as high accident zones, areas prone to fog and flooding or to accommodate animal or pedestrian crossing. Obeying speed limits drastically reduces the risk of collision. Ensuring everyone wears a seatbelt regardless of where they are in the vehicle reduces the chances of injury and death significantly.
Donâ??t drive impaired
Multiple factors affect driving ability. With so many of these beyond our control, itâ??s critical to take responsibility for what we can. Never operate a vehicle under the influence of drugs, alcohol and certain over-the-counter medications. Depressants, narcotics, stimulants, and hallucinogens all can alter vision, responsiveness, and thinking skills. Drugs quickly affect reaction time, coordination, and judgement. If youâ??re not sure, rather hand over your keys to a designated driver.
Perform regular vehicle maintenance
â??While human error is the biggest cause of car accidents on the road, badly maintained vehicles also contribute to the national road toll every year.â? says Ferreira. â??Itâ??s every driverâ??s responsibility to make sure the vehicle they are operating is well maintained and roadworthy. Worn parts might not be the cause of an actual collision but they could contribute to the chain of events leading up to a crash. Letting scheduled maintenance slide essentially puts your safety and that of those around you at risk.â??
Ferreira adds that one should have their vehicle checked at a reliable company like Auto Care & Diagnostics (ACD) to ensure a safer vehicle:
Tyres
Tyre failure is one of the most commonly cited causes of vehicular failure. A blown tyre results in the immediate loss of control; worn tread offers less traction on the road and reduces braking effectiveness. Inspect tread and use a tyre gauge to determine air levels to ensure they are always in line with the ownerâ??s manual.
Fluids
Fluids keep your vehicle running smoothly and prevent maintenance issues from arising, all these levels can be checked and replenished at any Auto Care & Diagnostics Workshop nationwide:
- Replacing worn-out oil improves engine performance, reduces fuel consumption and reduces the risk of engine damage.
- Transmission fluid keeps gears of the car running smoothly.
- Coolant prevents overheating by keeping the vehicle cool.
- Finally, brake fluid is essential for keeping brakes functioning properly. If brake fluid levels are low, the brake pads will not be as responsive â?? which could be catastrophic
Visibility
Dust and grime on car windows can obstruct the driverâ??s view. Dirty, worn wiper blades do more harm than good. Make a habit of keeping your vehicle clean, particularly windows and side mirrors and check windshield wipers and wiper motors to ensure a clear view at all times.
Also check headlights and indicators to ensure they are all in working order as this improves driver visibility while ensuring your vehicle is visible to others as well, particularly at night, in rain, or in fog when the risk of road accidents is much higher.
Suspension and Transmission
Faulty steering and suspension could see you at the wheel of a vehicle you are unable to control. Sudden transmission or engine failure might leave you stranded and at risk of collision. Itâ??s important to have these components assessed regularly by a technician as wear and tear here is far more insidious than that to tyres and brakes.
Emergency kit
Be prepared for unexpected roadside breakdowns by packing a simple emergency kit. This should include flashlights, roadside flares, a first-aid kit, a tool kit, jumper cables and a blanket. These could be purchased from Midas countrywide.
Prevention is always better than cure. Adopting a proactive stance toward driver behaviour and vehicle maintenance means less risk all round. â??We care about the safety of people on the road, itâ??s for this reason that weâ??re a passionate advocate for driver education around safe, well-maintained vehicles.â?? concludes Ferreira.
Issued by:
Scoop Communications (PTY) LTD
Gail Sham
Email: [email protected]
Mobile: +27 83 854 2185
