Motoring can be dangerous! That’s why we’ve put together some tips to help you stay safe on the roads, whether you’re travelling by car or by motorbike.
Before Setting Off:
– Whenever possible, travel by day on main, well-used roads. Plan your route in advance and check that you have an up-to-date road map in the car so that you won’t need to ask for directions
– If you have to travel after dark, tell someone your destination, your route, and what time you expect to arrive. If your plans change, let them know
– Take your mobile phone and make sure that the batteries are fully charged before you set off! Carry change for a pay phone too, just in case your phone runs out of range at a crucial time
– Ensure that your vehicle is serviced regularly and safe to use. Check its petrol, oil, coolant levels, and tyres, especially before a long journey.
While Driving:
– Remember that tiredness kills, so take a break on long journeys
– Never pick up hitchhikers
– Never leave valuables such as handbags or mobile phones on the passenger seat; they could be snatched at traffic lights
– Never leave your car unlocked, even on a garage forecourt when you go to pay for petrol. If possible, use an immobiliser device
– If you are a woman by yourself, try not to advertise the fact. Put spare shoes, bags etc. into the boot before leaving the car
– Keep your keys, money, and mobile phone in separate places, so that can’t all be stolen in one fell swoop
– If you become involved in an incident, avoid getting involved in an argument with the other parties
– If you are confronted with road rage do not get out of the car; keep your windows up and your car locked
– If your car starts to play up, stop in a busy, well-lit area. Get help immediately by calling your motoring organisation or garage. If you feel vulnerable and in need of special attention, inform the recovery helpline operator
– Never give lifts to strangers. If you see an accident or another driver in difficulty, do not stop. Telephone the Police as soon as possible and report what you have seen
– If a car pulls up alongside or behind you and the occupants try to attract your attention it may be a genuine warning. However, keep your doors locked and drive to a busy place such as a service area or garage forecourt before stopping. Even then, keep your doors locked until you are confident there is no danger
– If someone in a car is deliberately trying to intimidate you, or if you think a car is following you, keep driving until you reach a busy, public place, such as a Police, Fire, or Ambulance station, pub, or garage forecourt
– If a car pulls in front of you and forces you to stop, leave the engine running. If the driver or a passenger then gets out and approaches you, turn on your hazard lights, reverse as far as you can, and sound your horn continuously, no matter what time it is
– If the occupant of a car beside you at traffic lights or a junction tries to attract your attention, simply ignore them. Do not make eye contact
While Riding A Motorbike:
– Wear a helmet! The single most important thing you can do to stay safe on a motorcycle is to wear a helmet. Head injuries are the leading cause of death for motorcycle riders. In addition, make sure your helmet fits properly. It shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. It shouldn’t obstruct your vision, but it should cover most of your head
– Motorcycles are tough for drivers to see, so make sure you are clearly visible. If your motorbike or riding gear is a dark colour, or one that will blend in with other vehicles or the road environment, try to make yourself more easily noticeable. For example, you could kit your bike out in brightly coloured stickers like the ones offered by BIKE-label.
– When you’re preparing to go for a ride, check the weather. If heavy rain, snow, or ice is predicted, leave the bike at home. If you absolutely must ride in the rain, don’t ride right after the storm starts
– Since a motorcycle offers little protection in a crash, what riders wear is part of the crash protection system. This is why bikers wear leather: it’s strong enough to protect their skin if they slide along the road surface
– Riding a motorcycle is a skill, and it takes time to grow the skills you need to be an expert rider. To stay safe, make sure that you always ride within your abilities. Take the time to build your capabilities and only ride in situations where you know you are up to the task