5 driving tips to help you get home safely

Driving in today’s crowded cities can be dangerous. Although driving a car is safer than riding a bicycle or motorbike, safety is only achieved when the driver concentrates on driving.

A recent Ford survey found alarming numbers of young drivers today admit to engaging in dangerous driving behaviour.

To minimize the risk of accidents, drivers can equip themselves with practical driving tips and always follow safety rules, whether on long or short journeys.

Fasten your seat belts

Wearing a seat belt is always rule number one. Although this is considered basic advice, many people still ignore it, especially when sitting in the back seat. Not wearing a seat belt can lead to injury in the event of an accident.

Wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of injury in an accident by half and the risk of death by up to 45%.

Understand your car

This may sound obvious, but every car is different, so arm yourself with enough knowledge about the vehicle you're driving to prevent any distractions on the road.

Learn how to use your headlights, windshield wipers, and climate control before it gets dark or rains unexpectedly come. It’s also important to understand your vehicle’s warning lights.

Many cars today, such as the Ford Focus, are equipped with driver assistance technologies that help ensure your safety on busy roads, so familiarize yourself with these features before you start your journey.

No distractions

The list of distractions is endless: phone notifications, social media, rowdy children, eating in the car, applying makeup, lack of sleep, loud music… Distraction-related accidents and injuries are on the rise. Get your work done before you get behind the wheel.

Drive carefully

Slowing down in heavy traffic can be frustrating for even the most experienced driver. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when backing out of a parking spot, changing lanes, or turning. Use parking assist and other driver-assist technologies like blind spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert to let you know if other vehicles are in your blind spot.

Other “active defensive” driving techniques include: Using turn signals, steering with both hands, etc.

Keep an eye on the weather

As the weather changes, so do the traffic conditions on the roads. Practice driving in bad weather in a safe, isolated location to see how your grip, braking, and steering respond at different speeds. If possible, take an experienced driver with you. Practice will help drivers stay calm in challenging situations on any journey, whether it’s to school, work, or on a road trip.

In addition, driving techniques in the rainy season are especially important. Drivers should replace old wipers before the rainy season and check tires to make sure they are properly inflated. In addition, turn on headlights when the outside light is low and turn the steering wheel slowly.

Remember, driving is not a race. The only finish line is getting home safely.