Getting a driver’s license and owning a car is still a privilege in South Africa. According to Arrive Alive - There are approximately 3, 9 million public transport commuters. The 2, 5 million taxi commuters account for over 63% of public transport trips.
This post was published on 18 Mar, 2020

You have worked hard to get your driver’s license, and we know it takes months of waiting, preparing for the driving test and a substantial amount of money to have that card finally. Like anything you’ve worked hard for, the joy is everlasting. The newfound independence comes with lots of responsibilities considering the number of cars on our roads.

Human errors are the most significant cause of car accidents on the road; however, poorly maintained cars also contribute to accidents. It is the driver’s responsibility to make sure the vehicle they are driving is roadworthy and well maintained. Damaged parts might not be the cause of an actual crash, but they could contribute to the chain of events leading up to a collision.

The most commonly cited causes of car failure are faulty tyres. A blown tyre can result in the immediate loss of control; worn tread offers less traction on the road and reduces braking effectiveness. Inspect tread and use a tyre gauge to determine air levels to ensure they are always in line with the owner’s manual. Tyre & Rim cover from Old Mutual iWYZE helps you to take care of your tyres with protection against minor repairs and pothole damage.

Being a responsible and safe driver means having a good understanding of the risks involved in driving a car and always being vigilant, while also respecting the road rules. Driving aggressively on the freeway, going too fast in a residential area where children are playing in the streets and using a cell phone while driving is some of the irresponsible driving behaviours that cause road accidents.

Safe and efficient drivers are always aware of their surroundings and regularly check and adjust their mirrors to keep an eye on what is happening on the road.


Responsible drivers:

  • Respect other road users, i.e. motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists, drive safely.
  • Get car insurance.
  • Don’t drink and drive.
  • Never become distracted while driving (e.g., never use your cell phone or put on makeup while driving).
  • Respect road rules and follow them (always use signals indicating when you will turn, stop, or switch lanes and maintain a safe following distance and speed).
  • Make sure that your car is parked legally and is not blocking traffic or pedestrians.
  • Ensure that your car is safe to drive on the streets or highways.
    • Just like you wouldn’t hand your car over to just anyone to drive, don’t just hand it over to anyone to insure. Make the wise insurance choice and partner with Old Mutual iWYZE, an insurer you can trust.


Sources:
https://www.arrivealive.mobi/public-transport
https://medium.com/@orangetaxifarnham/9-ways-to-make-you-a-responsible-driver-e15af00e9a4e
https://www.driverseducationusa.com/resources/your-responsibilities-as-a-driver/



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