THE Department for Transport recently announced there had been a 12% drop in road deaths, with the number of people killed on Britain’s roads falling from 2,538 in 2008 to 2,222 in 2009.
Overall, the figures are good news and clearly demonstrate the important role that newer and safer cars are playing. However, the challenge now is to keep this momentum going and to continue to reduce death and injury on our roads.
Any death is one too many and every driver can play their part, so with this in mind Arval has produced its own safer driving tips to help you to reduce your own risk on the road:
1. Belt up on every journey - always wear your seat belt and make sure your passengers do too, front and back and in taxis too.
2. Protect your neck - adjust your head restraint and save yourself from whiplash or even a broken neck.
3. Keep your distance - always keep a two second gap between you and the car in front. When stationary, if you can’t see some tarmac between you and the car in front, you are too close.
4. Slow down - remember a speed limit is not a target. Adjust your speed accordingly around schools, in poor weather conditions and when visibility is reduced.
5. Concentrate - just a moment’s distraction can kill. Give the job of driving your full attention.
6. Take a break - never drive whilst tired. On long journeys stop for at least a 15 minute break every 2 hours.
7. Switch it off - don’t use your mobile phone whilst driving. No conversation or text message is more important than your life or someone else’s.
8. Don’t drink and drive - alcohol impairs your driving, even a small amount. Think carefully if you’re safe to drive the morning after too.
9. Anticipate and Observe - look once, look twice, think bike and of course, look out for all other types of road users.
10. Look after your car - regularly check the following on your car: oil, water, tyres, and lights. It is your responsibility to keep your car roadworthy.
Mike Waters is director of market insight at Arval, Europe's leading fleet and fuel management company.
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