New Year’s Road Resolutions

It’s easy to let bad habits creep in when you’ve been driving for a while. However, a relaxed attitude to road safety can be dangerous, so why not use your resolutions to ensure that you, and other drivers stay safe on the roads?

Here are some simple changes you could make to your driving, which could save lives:

Put your phone down – Talking, texting or using the internet while driving has become increasingly common over the last few years. A recent study by the Department of Transport found that 500,000 drivers are still using their phones while driving, every day. Whether you’re moving or stationary, using your mobile phone whilst behind the wheel impacts on your awareness of other road users, and can impair your judgement. To avoid temptation, put your phone out of reach until you reach your destination safely.

Think carefully about drink – While the majority of people would think carefully about getting in the car after a night of heavy drinking, the same can’t be said for the morning after. Alcohol levels can still be way over the limit, but many drivers will hop straight in the car to get on with their day. Consider delaying any driving until the afternoon, or taking public transport instead.

Indicate – Experienced drivers can often become overly relaxed about the importance of indicators, not using them at roundabouts or junctions. While it may feel unnecessary as you already know where you’re going, other road users do not. Lack of indication can be confusing at best, and dangerous at worst. Always use your indicators to show where you are going.

Stick to the speed limit – It can be tempting to speed, especially when you know the roads well, and feel confident in your driving abilities. However, speed limits are there to protect you and your fellow road users, so be aware of them, and stick to them.

Keep left – Hogging the middle lane on motorways can be the easy option; however it can cause congestion for other drivers. Avoid this by keeping left unless you are overtaking.

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