With the festive season just around the corner, it is important to take a few minutes to think about your safety on the roads. Whether you are travelling to visit family and friends or hitting the road for a holiday getaway, here are some tips to help keep you safe:

Buckle Up! 

This is one of the most important things you can do to stay safe on the road. In a crash, you're twice as likely to die if you're not wearing your seat belt. Make it a habit every time you get in a car, even for short trips.

Don’t Drink and Drive 

Avoid drinking and driving this festive season by planning ahead and designating a non-drinking driver. It is not worth the risk – you could kill yourself or someone else.

Drive to the Conditions

Slow down in wet weather and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. Be extra careful when driving around bends and through intersections.

Keep a Safe Following Distance 

Keep a safe distance from other vehicles. In good weather, it is recommended to keep at least three seconds of space between your car and the car in front of you. This becomes even more important in bad weather or high traffic areas.

Use Your Indicators

Indicate when you are turning, changing lanes or pulling over. This lets other drivers know what you are doing and helps to avoid collisions.

Be Alert 

Be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, especially when turning.

Check Your Car 

Check your vehicle before you set off. Make sure all your lights are working, the windscreen wipers are in good condition and that you have a full tank of fuel.

Plan Ahead 

Plan your route. If you are visiting family or friends, make sure you have the correct address and phone number for directions.

Take Regular Breaks

It can be easy to get behind the wheel when you are feeling tired after a long drive. But driving when you are overtired is dangerous – your reaction times are seriously slowed down and it takes longer to recover from distractions. Stop for a break every two hours or so to get some fresh air and stretch your legs.

Be Patient

The roads will be busy this festive season, so allow plenty of time for your journey and don't get frustrated with other drivers. Follow these tips and you'll help keep yourself and those around you safe this summer.

Watch the Speed Limit, Not the Clock

When you're on a road trip, it's easy to get wrapped up in the journey and lose track of time. But remember – the speed limit is there for a reason. Driving too fast can not only get you a ticket, but it can also put you and your passengers at risk in the event of a crash. So take your time, relax and enjoy the ride.

Stay Tethered To Your Bag

When you're out and about during the holiday season, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close by. One way to do this is to use a tether or strap to attach your bag to your body. This will help keep your belongings safe and close by, no matter where you go.

Preventative Measures

You can't always avoid accidents, but there are some things you can do to help reduce your risk. For example, make sure your car is in good condition and that you know how to use the safety features. And if you're travelling with children, make sure they are properly restrained in a car seat or booster seat.

Keep Fresh

Your body needs fresh air to stay alert. So when you’re driving, crack the window open slightly for some fresh air and cheer up! 

Keep Headlights on at All Times

When driving in bad weather, it's important to keep your headlights on so that other drivers can see you. 

Check Blind Spots Twice

Before changing lanes, make sure to check your blind spots for other cars. If there's someone there, wait until they've gone by before making your move.

Stop When Tired

If you start to feel tired while driving, it's best to pull over and take a break. Driving when you're tired can be dangerous – your reaction times are seriously slowed down and it takes longer to recover from distractions. Stop for a break every two hours or so to get some fresh air and stretch your legs.

Lock Up Your Valuables

When you're travelling, it's important to keep your belongings safe. One way to do this is to lock them up in the trunk of your car. This will help prevent them from being stolen or lost.

Recognise the Safety of All Road Users

Safeguard yourself and those around you by keeping focused on the road. It's also important to look out for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists who could be at risk on our roads this summer season. So remember to slow down and protect those walking or cycling (including children) by giving them plenty of space when overtaking.

Share the Road

We all have a responsibility to keep our roads safe, so please be courteous to other drivers and obey the rules of the road. This includes using your turn signals, not speeding and not driving under the influence. Let's work together to make sure everyone arrives safely at their destination this holiday season.

Ask Locals For Advice

When travelling to a new place, it's always a good idea to ask the locals for advice. They'll know the best places to eat, drink and visit and they can tell you about any road closures or traffic jams that you need to avoid.

There you have it – our top tips for staying safe on the road this summer. Follow these guidelines and you'll be sure to have a hassle-free journey. Have a great holiday from all of us at Start My Car! Drive safely this festive season!