Always be more careful and alert on the road. Here are a few friendly tips to ensure your safety on the road.
- Plan your trips in advance. This allows you time to decide which roads to use and can help you avoid high accident zones if possible.
- Have your car serviced by a qualified service mechanic.
- Make sure your windscreen is undamaged; this includes cracks that can obstruct your view.
- Check to make sure your wiper blades are fully functional. If worn out, replace them before you travel.
- Check the quality of your tyres. Worn out tyre treads can reduce braking time; especially on a wet surface.
- Make sure your headlights work properly and offer good visibility.
- Always wear a safety belt.
- Never disobey the speed limit – driving too fast or too slowly can be a potential hazard.
- Keep a safe following distance, this will give you enough time to react in case of an emergency.
- Always check your blind spot before changing lanes, even when driving on a road that seems deserted.
- When approaching a railway crossing, always slow down and proceed only when it is safe to do so.
- Stay alert and keep an eye on what is happening around you.
- Never drink and drive, statics indicate that a high number of road crashes in Botswana are alcohol related.
- Never drive while using your cellphone, this will only distract you and cause a lapse in concentration. Rather install a hands free kit in your car.
- Always rest when feeling tired; there is no point in trying to make your journey at record time and stop every two hours.
- If your visibility is compromised at night, avoid driving at after sundown, especially when there are storms or heavy rains.Never disobey road signs.
- Be on the lookout for obstructions like potholes or animals, which often stray into the road, especially in rural areas and highways.
- Never overload your car with passengers or goods, this will only slow your vehicle down and cause traffic disruptions.