SAGA — Doing things properly

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and Saga Motor Insurance give their top 10 tips for driving safely

• Prepare your car, by making sure it is in a safe condition – i.e. lights, tyres, oil, coolant & windscreen wash
• Avoid severe weather conditions
• Regularly check your speedometer as it is easy to lose track of how fast you are driving and regularly check what the speed limit is
• If you take a wrong turn, keep calm and don't make any sudden changes in direction, work your way round at the next suitable junction
• If you are taking medication make sure you read the label. If the label says the medication causes drowsiness or not to drive – heed the warning and don't drive. The warnings are there for a reason. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or to ask about medications for your condition that don't cause drowsiness
• Practice common sense safety rules. Always wear your seat belt and make sure all your passengers are buckled properly, even on short trips. If travelling with children, educate yourself on the many kinds of child safety seats and restraints. Choose which system is best for your child and always follow the directions. Make sure children are always buckled up in the back seat, the safest place to ride, either in a child restraint or the car's seat belt depending on their size and weight. For more advice go to www.childcarseats.org.uk
• Keep your eyes on the road. Avoid taking your eyes off the road by eliminating any possible distractions ahead of time. Before setting out on a drive, be sure that important items are within easy reach, i.e. directions and maps, sunglasses, etc. Don't divert your attention by changing tapes or compact discs and always pull over to a safe place to use your mobile telephone
• Plan routes in advance and if you are doing a long journey include a 15 minute break every two hours, and make sure you get a good nights sleep the night before
• Avoid driving between midnight and 6am, as natural alertness is low. Remember the risks if you do have to drive during these times and make sure you consciously drive more carefully
• If you feel drowsy whilst driving, find a safe place to stop (not on the hard shoulder if you are on the motorway). Drink a high-caffeine drink and take a 15 minute catnap. Opening the window or turning up the radio does little to prevent a driver from falling asleep at the wheel - you must stop