Driving is often a necessary part of life, but it can be dangerous too. A poorly maintained car, a tired driver, and a lack of knowledge of traffic laws can lead to disaster. Couple that with the ever-changing weather in the UK, and you’ll end up with the perfect storm.
But whether you’re a new driver or an experienced one, there are tips and tricks that can help you stay safe on the roads. Preparing for your next drive is key. So here are five tips to help you stay safe while driving in the UK.
Always follow traffic rules and signs
Following traffic rules and signs is essential to staying safe while driving. Adhering to speed limits, stop signs, traffic signals, and other road signs along your route is key to avoiding unforeseen accidents and mishaps that could have been avoided while driving.
Aside from the potential dangers of disregarding traffic rules, violating these laws can be costly, resulting in fines and points on your licence. Keeping yourself informed and updated on any changes to traffic rules can help you stay compliant and avoid any legal repercussions.
If you haven’t done so recently, you should re-familiarise yourself with the highway code, which includes all relevant traffic laws and signs in the UK. Whether you are navigating busy city streets or cruising along quiet country roads, always prioritise following traffic rules and signs to ensure a safe and stress-free driving experience.
Keep your vehicle well-maintained
Making sure your car is in good working order can go a long way in keeping you safe on the roads. And waiting for your annual MOT isn’t always the best course of action here. You’re responsible for keeping your car roadworthy even if it has recently passed its MOT.
Checking your tire pressure, oil levels, brakes, and headlights regularly will ensure that your vehicle is running as safely as possible. Knowing your car inside and out will make it easier for you to spot any issues before they become bigger problems down the road.
And if your car needs urgent repairs, sometimes you might have to give it up for a few days. If your car insurance doesn’t come with a courtesy car provision, don’t worry! Short term car insurance could be the solution here. It means you can borrow a friend’s car to get to work, run an errand, or visit a relative while your car is undergoing repairs.
Keep a safe distance
Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you is one of the most important aspects of safe driving. Don’t forget the famous two-second rule.
At higher speeds, maintain at least two seconds between cars so that if something unexpected happens on the road ahead, there will be enough time to brake safely
To check you’re keeping the two-second rule, pick a landmark ahead of you, like a road sign, start counting slowly when the car in front of you passes the landmark. Stop counting after you’ve passed it. If you don’t manage to count to two slowly, i.e. count two seconds, you’re going too fast. That means it may be time to slow down and pull back to create more distance between you and the car in front of you.
Be prepared for different weather conditions
The weather can change quickly in the UK so it’s important to always be prepared for different conditions when driving.
Whether it’s a good old-fashioned drizzle, sludgy fog, or fluffy snowflakes, it’s crucial to be ready for whatever the skies throw your way. So, before you head out on your journey, be sure to check for any warnings or alerts from weather services to help you prepare for different conditions.
It’s important to always practice extra caution when driving in the face of these varied weather phenomena. Keep an eye out for any warnings posted on roadside signs and adjust your driving accordingly. In addition, remember that the speed limit is meant for optimal weather conditions, so if the roads are particularly slick, it’s always better to play it safe and slow down, even if you’re on a road with a national speed limit sign.
You never know what kind of weather it will be like out there, so make sure you prepare for the worst and, hopefully, be pleasantly surprised by the best!
Stay alert and focused
It’s easy to get distracted when behind the wheel. But staying focused on the road is key to keeping you and others safe. So, put those pesky distractions like mobile phones out of sight and out of mind. Because let’s face it, there’s no text message or Instagram post worth risking your life or someone else’s for.
If you’re planning a lengthy excursion, don’t forget to factor in some pitstops. Those delicious service station coffees aren’t just a treat for your taste buds, they’re a lifesaver for your body too. Take the opportunity to stretch those legs and energise your mind. After all, fatigue can be a killer, even for the most careful of drivers. So, do yourself a favour and hit the pause button when necessary to recharge and stay sharp.
Staying safe while driving in the UK
Driving safely doesn’t have to be hard. Preparing for the journey ahead is key. And with these five tips in mind, anyone can navigate through traffic safely and confidently.
Remember to always follow traffic rules, keep your vehicle well-maintained, maintain a safe distance between vehicles ahead of you at all times, be prepared for different weather conditions, and stay alert and focused while on the roads.
These simple tips will help you have a pleasant and safe journey to your next destination. Whether you’re going on a long road trip, or just driving to Tesco for your weekly shop, staying safe on the road is so important.
