Simple ways to ensure safety when driving

Reduce the risk of getting into trouble on the road by following these simple ways to ensure your safety when driving.

Conduct pre-journey checks

You should conduct essential car checks before starting your journey, especially if your travel distance is significant. These checks will help ensure that all components are working as they should be, reducing the chance of you getting into difficulty on the road.

Parts to prioritise include your tyres, lights and brakes. Ensure your tyres are properly inflated for the load and roads you’ll be driving on, and ensure there are no tears or bulges in the rubber. Test your headlights and brake lights, and practise stopping the car with the pedal and handbrake. You should also regularly review your fluid levels and top them up as needed.

Utilise in-car technology

While on the road, take advantage of the safety features inside the car to improve your driving. Most useful are the sensors on all sides of the car which alert you when you’re getting too close to other vehicles or stationary objects, helping you avoid collisions on the road and when parking. Newer cars are also fitted with anti-lock brakes which help you maintain control and stability when braking suddenly or at high speeds.

On a basic level, ensure all passengers wear their seatbelts at all times and are seated correctly, even for very short journeys. Test child locks and ensure they’re on if you’re travelling with small children who might be tempted to try to open the doors while the vehicle is moving.

Maintain legal requirements

You must also maintain legal requirements to be a safe driver on the road. Your annual MOT test confirms whether your car is roadworthy, and a comprehensive car insurance policy safeguards your financial health should you be involved in a collision.

Arranging breakdown cover is also advisable although not a legal requirement. This will ensure help comes as quickly as possible if you end up stuck on the side of the road, or wake up to a flat tyre. Complement this with professional services at least once a year to identify mechanical issues before they become a major problem threatening your safety.

Drive for the conditions

Finally, and most simply of all, consider the climate and prepare to drive for the conditions. Weather can significantly impact the road surface and visibility, compromising your ability to drive well with confidence.

Winter is the most dangerous time to navigate the roads by car. Ensure you stay safe in snowy conditions by accelerating gently, sticking to slow gears and allowing time for your vehicle to fully defrost before setting off. When it’s raining heavily, increase your stopping distances by leaving more room between you and the vehicle in front. In bright sunshine, pay extra attention to your surroundings as hazards will be harder to spot, even if you’re wearing protective sunglasses.