HOW TO PREVENT CAR ACCIDENTS

Tyres squealing, metal crunching, glass shattering...

These sounds are perharps familiar to anyone who has been involved in a car accident. Attention to safety and plain common sense can help avoid many accidents.

Let us examine the following safety methods.

SPEED LIMITS

To some, speed limits may seem too slow but exeeding the speed limit usually makes little difference in the time it will take you to arrive at your destination. Picture this – increasing your car speed from 104km/hr to 129km/hr for a distance of 80km will gain you less than nine minutes. Is it worth risking an accident to gain such a little time?

SEAT BELTS

Seat belts are designed for safety. Does an air bag take the place of seat belts? Emphatically No! An air bag works with the seat belt to provide increased protection. If you do not wear your seat belt, the air bag looses its effectiveness and can even be dangerous. So make it a habit to always buckle up and have your passengers do the same.

TEXTING

Never attempt to read or compose text messages while driving.

TYRE TRACTION (Road Conditions)

Tire traction is reduced on wet roads and roads covered with dust, sand or gravel. By slowing down, you are unlikely to slide when breaking.

INTERSECTIONS

Intersections are dangerous for all drivers. An expert recommends the following – when a light turns green, wait before entering the intersection. By pausing just briefly, you may avoid been struck by a car running the red light.

GENERAL

Keep your car in good condition always.

Obeying traffic laws, wearing seat belts, keeping your car in good repair and refraining from driving after drin king alcoholic beverages can protect your life and the life of others.

These suggestions can help you to avoid accidents while driving, but only if you put them to practice.

Culled from Awake!