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Introduction
Things do not happen suddenly to
good drivers because they expect
the unexpected. As a driver you
should expect other road users to
get in your way and ensure you can
stop in time when they do. The
consequences of not doing this can
be fatal.
Advice
Drive at a speed and at a
distance to other vehicles and
pedestrians which enables you to
fully concentrate and spot all
dangers in time to avoid a
collision.
If you hit a pedestrian you
stand a 90% chance of killing him
or her at 40mph, but a 10% chance
at 20mph. A
safe speed may be well below
the limit on urban and rural
roads.
Never overtake or pull out if
there is even the slightest chance
you may collide with something.
Take the time to check twice and be
sure that what you are about to do
is 100% safe.
Are you
mentally prepared
?
Lack of time, stress, or simply
having your mind on other things
are common excuses for making
mistakes, but that's all they are -
excuses. Saving a life is more
important than fitting in an extra
business appointment or getting to
the shops before they close. Manage
your time, remain calm and
concentrate.
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Are you
physically fit ?
One in seven deaths are still
caused by drunk drivers.
Tired drivers kill too.
Never drink and drive, make
sure you are awake and take breaks
as often as you can on long
journeys. Make sure your eyesight
is excellent.
Is
your vehicle fit to drive
?
It is vital to ensure your
windows and mirrors are clean and
clear, particularly in
Winter, and your vehicle is
regularly serviced to ensure the
good condition of
tyres, brakes, steering and
lights.
Are
you and your passengers secure
?
Head restraints should be set
just behind the head, no lower than
the top of the ears. Ensure
everyone is
wearing their seatbelt. Using a
modern car with airbags and a
strong frame also reduces the risk
of you being hurt in a crash.
But
remember at all times the safety of
others
Your airbag
would do nothing to protect the
child you might hit !!
Be
Prepared
Know your
route before you set off. If
you are carrying children, make
sure they are as settled as
possible, and
correctly restrained, before
setting off.
Never use a
mobile phone whilst driving
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