Road safety is an issue that affects everyone who drives, cycles or walks on the road. Despite the efforts made by authorities to ensure that everyone follows traffic rules and regulations, it is often observed that many drivers take their safety for granted.

This is why, in this blog post, we are going to discuss seven driver safety reminders that are essential for every driver to follow. These reminders are not only important for the driver's own safety, but also for the safety of other road users.

We cannot stress enough the importance of adhering to these safety measures to prevent accidents and reduce the number of fatalities on our roads. So, read on to learn more about these crucial reminders and how you can ensure that you and others stay safe on the road.

7 Important Driver Safety Reminders

It's a sad reality that many drivers take road safety for granted, and it's not uncommon to witness inconsiderate or dangerous driving on a daily basis. As a frequent driver myself, I've encountered numerous instances where other drivers have tailgated, cut me off or displayed other reckless behavior on the road. While I try to stay calm and composed in such situations, it becomes particularly unnerving when my children are in the car with me.  Driving safely with children is my top priority as a parent when we are in the car.

Not only does tailgating or driving too closely to another vehicle make it difficult to concentrate on the road ahead, but it also poses a significant risk in case of sudden braking or stopping. The thought of having another vehicle crash into the back of my car and potentially harm my children is a terrifying one. It's frustrating to think that some drivers are too impatient to respect speed limits or give adequate space to other cars on the road, even if it means risking an accident and making an auto insurance claim.

I'm not sure if this is a localized issue, but I've noticed that this happens all too often in my area, particularly on roads where people tend to exceed speed limits by 10-20 mph.

To ensure safety on the road, it's crucial to adhere to the following seven reminders.

1.    Don't Use Your Phone When Driving: The Risks of Distracted Driving

One of the most crucial safety reminders for drivers is to avoid using their mobile phones while driving. This is definitely one time you shouldn't be on your mobile phone.  Despite being a well-known fact, it's alarming to see how many drivers still use their phones while on the road. I recently witnessed a man not paying attention while reversing near my home, despite children playing on the pavement during summer holidays. It's moments like these that remind us of the potential danger that comes with distracted driving.

When you're behind the wheel, your attention should be solely focused on the road ahead. Using a mobile phone while driving can cause drivers to lose focus, react slowly, and make poor decisions that can lead to accidents. It's not just about having one hand off the steering wheel; using a phone also distracts your mind, making it difficult to process information and react quickly in case of an emergency.

It's important to remember that a momentary distraction can have dire consequences, not just for you, but for other road users too. Therefore, it's essential to put your phone down while driving and focus on the road. Stop trying to multitask and if you need to make a call or check your messages, find a safe place to pull over and park your car. Remember, your safety and that of others on the road are too important to be compromised by a quick glance at your phone.

2.    The Importance of Slowing Down for Speedbumps

It's crucial to follow speed limits, especially when it comes to speedbumps. These traffic calming measures are typically installed in areas with a higher risk of accidents or where there's a likelihood of children or pedestrians being present. While some drivers may see speedbumps as a mere annoyance, they play a critical role in ensuring safety on the road.

As a driver, it's essential to slow down when approaching speedbumps. Not only is it dangerous to drive over them at a normal speed or while speeding, but it can also damage your car, particularly the exhaust. If the exhaust is very low on your car or needs repairing, driving over speedbumps can cause it to scrape, leading to costly repairs.

Driving over speedbumps too quickly can also cause your car to bounce, reducing your control of the vehicle and potentially causing an accident. Additionally, it's important to consider the safety of pedestrians and other drivers who may be in the vicinity, as speeding over speedbumps can put them at risk.

Therefore, it's essential to slow down when driving over speedbumps, follow the speed limit, and be mindful of other road users. Remember, speedbumps are there for a reason and adhering to them can prevent accidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

3.    Don't Speed: Why Adhering to Speed Limits is Crucial for Road Safety

Speeding is a serious offense that puts the lives of everyone on the road at risk. Speed limits exist for a reason, and drivers should never exceed them. Not only is it illegal, but it also makes it difficult and dangerous for other cars to pull out of junctions, especially on country roads with blind corners.  It causes accidents and I'm sure we all want to stay alive and survive each car journey, so don't speed!

Driving at high speeds increases your braking distance, making it challenging to react to sudden situations and stop in time. This can have fatal consequences for both the driver and other road users. Therefore, it's crucial to adhere to speed limits and ensure the safety of everyone on the road. 

4.    The Grim Consequences of Not Wearing Your Seatbelt: A Reminder to Strap Up

Wearing a seatbelt while driving is not just a legal requirement, but it's also one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your passengers in case of an accident. Unfortunately, there are still people who refuse to wear their seatbelts, often with fatal consequences.

I've known four people who have lost their lives due to not wearing their seatbelts in three different car crashes. One of them was my school friend, who died in a car crash at the age of 19. Although everyone else in the car suffered minor injuries, she was thrown out of the back windscreen and suffered fatal head injuries.

Wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of serious injury or death in case of an accident. It keeps you securely in your seat, preventing you from being thrown around the car or ejected from the vehicle. Moreover, not wearing a seatbelt puts other passengers at risk too, as you can be flung across the car and cause harm to them. In the unfortunate event of a rideshare accident abroad, seeking legal advice, such as from an LA Lyft accident lawyer, can help ensure your rights are protected.

Therefore, it's essential to strap up and wear your seatbelt every time you get into a car, no matter how short the journey is. It's a simple yet effective way to ensure your safety and the safety of everyone in the car.

5.    Check Your Tyres: The Importance of Regular Tyre Maintenance

Regular tyre maintenance is crucial for safe driving. Neglecting your tyres can result in poor handling, reduced braking performance, and an increased risk of accidents. Here are some essential things to keep in mind when checking your tyres:

• Tread: The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm, but experts recommend replacing your tyres once they are below 3mm. In wet conditions, low tread depth can significantly reduce your car's ability to grip the road, increasing the risk of skidding or hydroplaning.
  
  
• Pressure: Tyre pressure affects your car's handling, fuel efficiency, and tyre life. You can easily find the correct tyre pressure for your car online or in your owner's manual. Check your tyre pressure at least once a month using a tyre pressure gauge or a pump with a pressure gauge. Under-inflated tyres can increase fuel consumption, reduce tyre life, and compromise your car's handling.
  
  
• Wear and tear: Check your tyres for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, bulges, or cuts. Old or worn tyres can be dangerous and need to be replaced immediately. Pop into your local tyre shop to seek advice and get a new tyre if necessary.
  
  
• Punctures: Keep an eye out for any foreign objects, such as nails or screws, that may have punctured your tyres. A puncture can cause slow deflation, leading to poor handling and an increased risk of blowouts. It's essential to repair or replace the punctured tyre as soon as possible.

Regular tyre maintenance can save money and go a long way in ensuring your safety on the road. Take the time to check your tyres regularly, and you'll have the peace of mind of knowing that you're driving on safe, reliable tyres.

6.    Keeping Your Car Running Smoothly: The Importance of Regular Servicing

Regular car servicing is essential for maintaining your car's health and ensuring it performs at its best. Here are some reasons why regular car servicing is crucial and why you should budget for this car expense:

• Prevention of breakdowns: Regular servicing can help identify any potential issues before they become major problems, preventing costly car breakdowns and repairs.

• Improved fuel efficiency: A well-maintained car performs more efficiently, leading to better fuel economy and lower running costs.

• Enhanced safety: Regular servicing can help identify any safety issues, such as worn brakes or tyres, that could compromise your car's safety on the road.

• Longer lifespan: Regular servicing can extend your car's lifespan, reducing the need for expensive repairs or replacement.

A full service should be booked once a year, and a mini service six months after that if you drive your car regularly or cover long distances. Remember that neglecting your car's maintenance can lead to bigger problems down the line. A car services will ensure the car is well maintained and can prevent a breakdown.  It can also highlight other issues that might not otherwise be spotted until your next MOT.  

7.    Don't Forget to Indicate: The Importance of Signalling on the Road

Indicating is a simple yet crucial aspect of driving that many people seem to overlook. Failing to indicate can cause confusion and pose a significant safety risk to pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers. Here are some reasons why indicating is so important:

• Clear communication: Signalling lets other road users know where you intend to go, allowing them to adjust their driving or crossing accordingly.
  
  
• Prevents accidents: Proper use of indicators can prevent accidents and near-misses, particularly at roundabouts, junctions, and when changing lanes.
  
  
• Legal requirement: Failing to indicate when required is a punishable offense and could result in fines and penalty points on your driving license.
  
  
• Pedestrian safety: Indicating is particularly important when approaching zebra crossings or other pedestrian crossings, as it allows pedestrians to know if they can cross safely.

Remember to always indicate when turning, changing lanes, or approaching a junction or roundabout. It's a simple yet effective way to communicate with other road users and keep everyone safe.

The final word

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the rush of everyday life, including when we're behind the wheel. However, it's important to remember that driving is a privilege that comes with a great responsibility to ensure the safety of ourselves and others on the road. By following these seven driver safety reminders, we can help reduce the risk of accidents and keep ourselves and others safe. Let's all do our part to promote safe driving habits and create a better, safer driving environment for everyone.

Here's a summary of the 7 driver safety reminders mentioned in the article:

1. Don't use your phone while driving.
2. Slow down for speed bumps and other traffic calming measures.
3. Adhere to speed limits to avoid accidents and increase stopping distance.
4. Always wear your seatbelt to prevent serious injuries in the event of a crash.
5. Regularly check your tires for proper tread, pressure, and wear.
6. Service your car at least once a year to prevent breakdowns and identify potential issues.
7. Always indicate your intentions when turning or changing lanes to alert other drivers and pedestrians.

It's important to also emphasize that certain actions should never be taken when driving, including drink driving, driving when tired, and for older drivers who may experience age-related changes in their driving abilities, driving beyond their capabilities. These actions can severely impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and can result in accidents, injuries, or even fatalities. While your older parents might want to be more independent, they should also be aware when their driving habits are too dangerous for themselves and those around them.

It's important to always make responsible decisions when it comes to driving, and if you're unable to drive safely, seek alternative transportation options. Additionally, drivers of all ages should regularly assess their driving abilities and take appropriate steps to improve their skills or address any potential limitations. By taking these precautions, we can all contribute to safer roads for everyone.

Remember, by following these safety reminders, you can help ensure your safety on the road, as well as the safety of others around you.