There are times when driving in heavy traffic demands an extra effort on our part to keep calm. Not only do we have to make an effort to avoid road rage, but an act of courtousy to other drivers can really make the difference to their day. It doesn’t cost a thing to be nice to others, to help make everyone’s journey safer and more pleasant. Here are some tips to help you stay calm onthe road.

Before starting out

Vehicle breakdowns are a major source of stress. Ensure that your car is regularly serviced and well maintained. Plan your journey well. If you’re taking a different route from usual, or travelling long-distance abroad, take the time to familiarise yourself with the route on a map. Allow plenty of time for the journey. Set off early to avoid rushing. Take the time to be comfortable. Adjust your seating, mirrors and air-conditioning level to your liking. Select the music you want to listen to on your trip.

On the road

Respect the speed limit. If you are travelling long distance, take a break every two hours or every 100 km. If you are sleepy or finding it hard to concentrate, take a break from driving. Remain calm in traffic jams. There is no point getting all worked up over something that you can’t prevent. Be tolerant of other road users, no matter how bad their behaviour. Don’t take their driving habits personally. Say ‘thank you’ whenever you need to, for example when another driver gives way to you at a busy junction. Wave and smile to show your appreciation. Apologise when you make a mistake. This can help to diffuse and defuse anger.

Pay attention to other road users

As a driver, you need to be on a constant lookout for other road users including pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists. Too often, drivers act as if they are the king of the road and refuse to give right of way to pedestrians or cyclists. This is not just rude, it is also dangerous. You need to show some responsibility towards the safety of the otherroad users.

Pedestrians

Give way to pedestrians whenever possible. Take particular care with the very young, the disabled and the elderly, they may not have seen you and might not be able to react quickly to danger. Look out for pedestrians approaching or standing at zebra crossings, stop and let them cross safely. Do not speed up or rev your engine to scare them. Look out for pedestrians at all times but especially in shopping areas, where there might be a number of people waiting to cross the road, often at junctions.

Motorcyclists

Look out for motorcyclists any time you are on the road. Don’t just trust your mirrors. Motorcyclists can be hidden in your blind spot. Turn and look over your shoulder to be sure. Look out for motorcyclists who are weaving in and out of lanes, because they can be unpredictable. Be especially aware when you are waiting to turn or to move out from a junction or roundabout. Motorcyclists can appear suddenly on either your left or your right and you may not notice them until it’s too late.

Do not speed up when a motorcyclist is trying to overtake you. Anticipate a motorcyclist swerving to avoid potholes or obstructions on the road. If you are a motorcyclist, be aware of how your weaving in and out of lanes can be a shock and be unsettling to drivers in cars, especially when cars are stuck in traffic, such as before traffic lights.

Cyclists

When passing cyclists, give them at least two metres clearance as you pass them. This is because of the wind turbulence your vehicle creates. Cyclists may swerve to avoid potholes in the road, so be extra careful when passing them. Always look out for cyclists when turning at junctions or roundabouts.

Do:

• Concentrate on the road

• Obey the speed limit

• Stop at red lights and stop signs

• Maintain a safe distance from the car ahead of you

• Use your indicator when you are turning or overtaking

• Respect pedestrians’ right of way

Don’t:

• Drive too close to the car in front

• Speed up when a traffic light turns amber

• Use your horn excessively

• Make obscene or threatening gestures at other drivers

• Block other drivers from overtaking you

• Be distracted by your passengers, mobile phone, radio or food

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