Safe driving tips

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Over time, it’s common for drivers to develop bad habits or overlook lessons from their driver training. To ensure your safety while driving, here are some crucial tips to remember.

10 top safe driving tips to help you drive safely

Cultivating good driving practices not only ensures your safety on the road but can also be beneficial for your finances.

By maintaining a clean driving record and increasing your no-claims bonus, you can potentially lower your car insurance premiums. Explore our advice on how to drive safely.

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Maintain a safe following distance

Always ensure at least a two-second gap between your vehicle and the one in front. This buffer gives you adequate time to respond if the car ahead suddenly slows down or stops.

While it’s a commonly practiced rule on highways, it becomes even more crucial on rural roads. Brake, a road safety charity, reports that over half of Britain’s fatal accidents happen on countryside lanes.

Deaths on these roads occur at a rate three times higher than on city streets, impacting car drivers, motorcyclists, and cyclists alike.

Turn off your phone

Using a mobile phone while driving is not only distracting but illegal. Even glancing at your phone in traffic or at stoplights can have dire consequences.

A £200 fine and six penalty points await those caught in the act. In severe cases, a £1,000 fine and a driving ban can be imposed.

Adhere to speed limits

Speeding isn’t just a ticket risk; it endangers lives. In 2020 alone, speeding was a factor in 3,927 accidents in the UK, with 1,361 of them resulting in fatalities or serious injuries, as per government data. Always prioritise safety over speed.

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Don’t drive tired

While constant fatigue may seem a norm in today’s fast-paced world, it’s dangerous behind the wheel.

Fatigue affects your reflexes and decision-making ability. For longer journeys, schedule breaks and stay hydrated.

Vehicle maintenance is key

Routine checks can prevent mishaps. Issues like bald tyres or failing brakes significantly up the risk factor.

Ensure regular servicing, MOTs, and check vital parameters like tyre pressure and fluid levels before setting off.

Stay level-headed

A staggering 62% of drivers admit to experiencing road rage, a significant contributor to accidents. It’s always best to drive in a calm state of mind, avoiding the wheel when feeling overwhelmed or tired.

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Prepare for sun glare

Sunlight, especially during dawn or dusk, can severely impair vision, especially when reflecting off wet roads or snow.

A handy pair of sunglasses in the glove compartment can make all the difference.

Be considerate of all road users

Whether it’s pedestrians, cyclists, or horse riders, always be vigilant. Mutual respect goes a long way in ensuring safety.

If possible, establish eye contact to signal awareness and always provide ample space.

Get a grip

While driving gloves might seem dated, they offer better wheel grip, especially during extreme weather, ensuring better vehicle control.

Always be prepared

Equip your car with an emergency kit. From spare tyres to first aid, de-icer, and jump leads, these tools can be lifesavers during unexpected breakdowns or incidents.

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Frequently asked questions

I’m a safe driver – can I get cheaper car insurance?

Related: Group 5 car insurance

Yes, telematics insurance, often referred to as black box insurance, maybe a great option for you.

This insurance uses a device or app to monitor your driving behaviours, including speed and skill. Demonstrating safe driving habits could lead to more affordable insurance rates.

How do penalty points affect my insurance?

Receiving penalty points on your licence, due to infractions like speeding or phone usage while driving, can lead to a notable increase in your insurance premiums.

What are the UK speed limits?

Within the UK, the established speed limits are:

30mph in urban areas (though some sections of London enforce a 20mph limit)
60mph on single-lane roads
70mph on dual carriageways and motorways.

Where can I do an advanced driving skills course?

IAM RoadSmart for courses designed to enhance your driving proficiency. Not only will you become a more adept driver, but you might also qualify for more favourable car insurance rates.