Stay Safe on the Road This Holiday Season with Suzuki’s S.M.A.R.T Tips
As the festive season approaches, many South Africans are eagerly preparing for a well-deserved break. Some will relax at home, while others will travel across the country to visit family, friends, and various holiday spots.
This surge in travel often leads to congested roads filled with tired drivers anxious to reach their destinations quickly. This scenario increases the risk of accidents due to heavy traffic and impatient drivers.
To ensure safe travels, Suzuki Auto South Africa, in collaboration with FleetMax Africa, offers S.M.A.R.T driving tips as part of their DriveSmart campaign. These tips focus on hazard awareness, minimizing distractions, and adopting defensive driving techniques for a stress-free journey.
Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager of Suzuki Auto South Africa, notes the love South Africans have for road trips, especially as the year ends. However, historical road safety data reveals a high number of trips result in road rage, accidents, or worse. To combat this, Suzuki and FleetMax Africa have developed guidelines to help motorists stay safe during their travels.
Suzuki’s S.M.A.R.T Driving Tips
- Stay Alert for Hazards: Always scan the road for moving or stationary hazards. Check your mirrors every five to eight seconds, and before braking, to gauge the distance and speed of vehicles behind you. This helps prevent collisions.
- Manage Road Hazards Swiftly: If you spot a hazard, change direction or adjust your speed promptly. Use your horn or flash your headlights if necessary. Early identification and anticipation give you more time to react safely.
- Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road. Distractions can be auditory (loud music), physical (handling devices), or mental (daydreaming). The faster you drive, the less time you have to react to hazards.
- Practice Defensive Driving with the Five Cs:
- Concentration: Focus solely on driving and minimize distractions.
- Competency: Know your vehicle and drive it safely and efficiently.
- Compliance: Follow all road rules and take responsibility for your passengers’ safety.
- Consideration: Be patient to avoid stress and road rage.
- Communication: Use signals to communicate your intentions clearly.
Always prioritize the safety of all road users. Drive thoughtfully to save money, protect the environment, and ensure you reach your loved ones without regret.
Ashref Ismail, CEO of FleetMax Africa, highlights the increased traffic during December and January. He advises drivers to remain patient, enjoy the scenic routes, and be prepared for delays to avoid unnecessary risks.
For more helpful automotive tips, subscribe to the Suzuki blog, packed with valuable articles delivered straight to your inbox.
