Summer holidays are almost here, and that means it’s road-tripping time. For many of us, long-distance road trips are synonymous with the December holidays, as we join extended family or look forward to experiencing one of South Africa’s beautiful destinations.
But even as we anticipate the good times and holiday fun, it's crucial to prioritise safety and do our part to avoid road accidents and fatalities. The combination of increased traffic, impatient and tired drivers, unfamiliar environments, and poor road conditions means accidents are more likely to happen at peak times.
Read on for road safety tips and minimise your chances of being involved in an accident.
How we can prevent road accidents - even before leaving home
Every great expedition starts with preparation. Here’s what you can do to stay safe before hitting the road:
- Check your car insurance so that you’re protected should anything go wrong.
- Take note of roadworks along your route and factor in likely delays.
- Check that you have all necessary documentation, such as licenses, insurance, and vehicle registration, and that they are up to date.
- Get your car serviced if it’s due for one.
- Even if it doesn’t need a service, complete a mechanical check. This includes inspecting your tires, including spare, jack and wheel nut sprocket; checking oil and coolant; windscreen and wipers; lights, indicators, GPS, aircon, and battery.
- Check your radio if it is working so you can get road traffic alerts, and pack jumper cables.
- If you have children, check that their car or booster seats are secure and in working condition.
- Pack an emergency/first aid kit, including disposable gloves.
- Have a fully charged power bank for your mobile phone, and that you have data and airtime available should you need it.
- If towing a trailer or caravan, check all connections and tie-downs for security.
- Don’t overload your vehicle. Ideally, all luggage should be in the boot. This may mean limiting the number of bags your passengers can bring.
Road safety rules
Following the rules of the road, obeying traffic police and road signs, will help make driving safer for everyone:
- Buckle up! Keep seatbelts on for everyone in the car.
- Children should be seated in age-appropriate car seats or booster seats that are properly secured.
- Follow the speed limit, and slow down in hazardous conditions, such as poor weather, sharp bends, or potholes.
- Exercise caution when overtaking. Avoid overtaking on solid lines or blind rises, and only proceed when there is a safe gap in traffic or by using dedicated overtaking lanes.
- Refrain from operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances, as these impair reaction times and may affect insurance outcomes in the event of an accident.
- Don’t use your phone while driving.
Safe driving in South Africa over the holiday season
You’ve prepped your car and checked your route. Now it’s time to practice safe driving and get everyone to your destination.
Be a defensive driver. Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you and stay alert to what is happening behind you. Watch for rocks, potholes, and other obstacles on the road, as well as for pedestrians or animals crossing in front of your car.
Adjust your driving speed according to traffic signs and weather conditions. Obey all the rules of the road.
Take breaks. Pull over every two hours to exit your vehicle, have a drink of water, and stretch your legs and arms. Not doing so will increase the chances of fatigue or road blindness. Only stop in a safe place, such as a service station.
Exercise patience. Congestion and traffic jams can be frustrating, as can slower drivers. Don't be provoked by other drivers’ behaviour or driving style. If you feel uncomfortable behind a poor driver, find a safe time to overtake, or put some distance between your vehicles.
SOS and Roadside assistance
In case of an emergency, Santam offers a 24/7 Emergency Hotline 0860 505 911, or you can easily access our emergency services through our client app.
SOS services are available to all our policyholders at no additional cost. This includes:
- Mechanical/electrical breakdown assistance.
- Jump-start of your vehicle.
- Assistance when your keys are locked inside your vehicle.
- Roadside tyre changes if you have a spare wheel.
- 10 litres of fuel if you run out.
- Directions and detailed map information on call.
- Dispatch of emergency medical services for life-saving assistance.
- Emergency transportation by air or road ambulance.
- Children transported to a place of safety if required.
- Doctor and medical facility referrals.
- Unlimited telephonic trauma counselling.
Check your car insurance cover
The success of your road trip depends on one precious item: your vehicle. Get peace of mind with affordable car insurance from Santam. Stay protected against the cost of accidents, theft, third-party claims and other risks.
Contact Santam for an instant online insurance quote and enjoy the holiday season hassle-free.