8 TIPS FOR SAFE DRIVING 

When driving, safety must be top of mind for you as it'll keep you and other road users away from danger. Here are 8 safe driving tips you should use daily; 

1. No tailgate

Leave plenty of braking space behind the person in front of you in case of a sudden stop. The distance between the vehicle and the vehicle in front should be at least 3 seconds. In bad weather, allow at least one second in case you slip or skid.

2. Be aware of your blind spots

Know where your vehicle's blind spots are and check them before turning or changing lanes. Be aware of other vehicle's blind spots and avoid driving in them. Let other drivers always see you.

3. Fasten your seat belt

Fasten your seat belt wherever you go and no matter how long you're in the car. If you have young children, always emphasize the importance of seat belts and make sure they are fastened. 

4. Adjusting the Side Mirrors

Many drivers have been taught to see part of the car in their side mirrors while driving, which is incorrect. Tilt the mirror outwards slightly. If you make it a little bigger, you won't be able to see the cars, and you'll get a better view of the road instead.

5. Use your turn signals

You should always use your turn signals to alert other drivers (not just cyclists or pedestrians) that you are about to turn or change lanes. After checking your blind spots and turning, listen to see if the signal is off, or check your dashboard to see if the turn signals are off. I don't want to be the one driving down the street flashing turn signals with no intention of turning. It can mislead other drivers and cause an accident.

6. Be careful of stress

Do not drive when you are tired or stressed. If you have difficulty keeping your eyes open as a result of your tiredness then you might risk falling asleep at the wheel. Studies show that if you stay awake for 18 hours straight, you can drive with a blood alcohol level of 0.05.

7. Be careful with the strength of the brakes

Do not step on the brakes. Instead, watch the road and use the brakes only when necessary. Keeping a safe distance from the car in front will let you know that the car has slowed down, so you can ease off the accelerator. If you brake all the time, drivers behind you cannot tell when you're braking and slowing down legitimately.

8. Don't drink and drive

Drinking alcohol debilitates drivers and causes many fatalities around the world. Alcohol has many adverse effects that contribute to car accidents. Elevated alcohol levels can cause blurred vision, double vision, and even loss of consciousness. Drunk driving is a serious offense.