While we don’t like to think about it, road accidents claim more than a thousand lives every year. In 2019, as many as 1,738 people were killed on UK roads. And while some accidents are not preventable, the true tragedy is the number of lives lost every year as a result of crashes which could have been avoided.
https://www.hendycarstore.co.uk/driver-fatigue-essential-road-safety-guide/
I will be approaching my 1-million mile mark of virtually* accident-free motoring some time in late 2023. I thought I would bore you dear reader with a couple of tips I worked out for myself during those 44 years of driving/motorcycling:
Driving past junctions, it takes away minimal concentration to eye the vehicle waiting if you use ones peripheral vision to watch the Front Wheel, rather than the actual car. Even the slightest rotation of the wheel can be spotted instantly alerting you to a possible accident. Try it.
On a motorway, look out for the safe driver, the one who uses indicators, doesn’t tailgate or otherwise drives erratically. Then simply drive behind them. Two brains looking out for danger. Works really well on long journeys at night.
On any post mid-90s car, driving in snow and cannot set off without losing traction. Set off without touching the accelerator. Engine management on modern EFi engines will allow you to get moving, driving past endless moribund motorists. I do this every year and it is amazing how well it works. In really icy conditions, try 2nd gear. Manual transmission cars only…
If you breakdown in a bad situation, engage 1st and drive the car to safety using the starter motor. I had a Russian imported Lada with a huge winter battery. I could actually change gear and drive 0.5 km on that car. Even up a steep hill. This technique literally was a life saver for my niece on a ‘Smart’ motorway last week.
Finally, if you drive out of town at higher speeds, go for a bigger car than say Citroen C1 type of small car. Physics puts you at an instant disadvantage when you are in a sub 1,000 kg vehicle. High NCAP ratings are good, but a heavier car is even better. Having worked most of the years as a motor mechanic, the state small cars end up after a small crash is horrific. Many are bought for first time drivers too. Take the hit on higher initial and running costs for extra safety. Buy your son/daughter a bigger car?
As this is an enthusiatst’s website, maybe add some of your own ideas?
English is not my first language, so apologies 🙂