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Being safe on the road demands the driver to be aware at all times of what other drivers - or pedestrians - are doing and to be able to anticipate and predict what they might possibly do. When a dangerous situation presents itself, the driver must have sufficient skill to react quickly and smoothly, without endangering property or lives.
Driving skills becomes a matter of habit, whether good or bad. Immature driver should the correct techniques, while it may be useful for the veteran to carefully check the pattern of his own driving practice.
Preventing drowsiness
Driving on a long open road is often more hazardous than negotiating busy city streets. The drive could become boring and hence the driver will become drowsy.
Watch out for these signs: yawning, heavy eyelids, spasmodic jerks of the body and your vehicle wandering off the road. The following tips could help prevent such symptoms:
- small and regular snacks during your journey is the better option than that of a large meal
- avoid wearing tight clothes and accessories
- stop at least every 200 kilometres for about five minutes to stretch your legs
- ensure that there is adequate ventilation in the car
- encourage other passengers to chat with you.
Beware the other driver
Darkness and rainy conditions and other road users may be regarded as of the commonest hazards. The driver must learn to recognise potentially dangerous drivers and keep clear of them.
When provoked, keep your temper and resist the temptation to retaliate – it may result in anything from a collision to a shooting match.
Be especially cautious when driving near any of the following:
- Any vehicle in which the driver’s range of vision is limited, such as a fully laden pick-up with no side mirrors.
- A truck with a badly packed or unsecured load.
- A car containing active children and pets – the driver may be distracted.
- A vehicle with many dents and scratches – the driver may be habitually careless.
- A driver who obstructs the way and does not let you pass – slow down and let him get far ahead.
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