Before your trip

•  Plan your trips in advance. This allows you time to decide which roads to use and can help you avoid poor weather and high accident zones. 

• Before taking on the road, make sure your vehicle is roadworthy and that all lights and indicators, windscreen wipers, brakes, steering, exhaust system and tyres are examined.

 

 

On the road

• Always make sure you and your passengers are buckled up – even if you’re travelling a short distance or at a low speed.  All children should be buckled up in an approved child restraint appropriate to their age.

• Keep a safe following distance - this will give you enough time to react in case of an emergency.

• Always obey the signs of the road and avoid reckless driving. Stay alert and keep an eye on what’s happening around you. 

• Remain in the speed limit.  

• Avoid driving if you’re tired. Being tired on the road can kill you and your passengers. If you’re getting tired behind the wheel, stop and take a break to rest.

• Always be prepared. Keep an emergency kit with items that would come handy in case you’re stranded or involved in an accident.

• Be on the lookout for potentially dangerous drivers and pedestrians along the road and keep clear of them. Find out more about pedestrian safety.
  Remain alert at high-risk hijacking and smash-and-grab spots. 

 

 

Things to avoid while driving 

• Never drink and drive. 

• Avoid distractions while driving. For example, install a hands-free kit in your car instead of using your cell phone and avoid chatting or sending SMS’s while you’re behind the wheel. 

• Avoid driving at or after sundown, especially when there is rain, storms which reduces visibility.

• Avoid leaving valuable goods like wallets and cell phones in plain sight in your car. To be safe, keep it in the boot of the car and out of sight.  

 

 

Public transport safety

If you make use of public transport services, you need to take the necessary precautions to stay safe on the road. 
Here are some tips:

• Plan your journey. This includes the modes of transport you intend on using such as a train, taxi, or bus. Familiarise yourself with public transport routes and operating times so that you’re better prepared. 

• Stay alert to your surroundings and keep your wallet where you can see it. If you carry a handbag or backpack, make sure the strap(s) and zips are secure and closed.

• Ensure that you know the distance, direction, and time it takes to get to your final destination.

• Be alert always while travelling on public transport. Try not to fall asleep while using public transport, especially when travelling by yourself.

• Maintain a schedule that ensures plenty of people are at your bus or train stop and that you’re not left alone.