ROAD safety is more than just driving safely. It is how each life on the road is precious. More importantly, it is about how we can protect ourselves and our loved ones.
Zurich Malaysia has compiled some useful tips for Malaysians to follow before and while on the road as the excitement builds for the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive season.
The aim is to make the journey home to reunite with loved ones safer and more comfortable, as well as remind all motorists to take simple steps to protect themselves and others on the road:
1. The lack of tyre treads equals less traction so make sure your tyres are in roadworthy condition and adequately inflated before your journey. Make sure your tyre repair kit, if you have one, hasn't passed its used by date as well.
2. Have your brakes and brake fluid checked at the nearest petrol station or workshop if you hear grinding, growling, or squealing when braking, or notice a difference in braking performance.
3. Ensure your headlights, rear lights, and brake lights are all working in order. Visibility is everything while driving especially if you decide to start your travels at night.
4. Different roads have varying posted speed limits. Adhere to them to avoid potential accidents or even getting a speeding ticket.
5. Maintain physical distancing. Following the vehicle in front of you too closely reduces reaction time and increases risks of accidents so do not tailgate.
6. Use your indicators for at least three seconds before changing lanes. Also, do not use hazard lights in the rain unless your car is stalled as they are used to indicate a stopped vehicle. This can be misleading and dangerous when your car is moving.
7. No call or message is worth endangering your life or those around you so they can wait until you've come to a stop. Texting or getting on a non-handsfree call delays reaction time by up to 50 per cent.
8. Do not hog the emergency lane to skip traffic as it should be clear for people who genuinely need to stop, or for emergency purpose. Getting home on time for dinner is not an emergency.
9. Always check your motor insurance policy's coverage before every renewal to keep it updated. You might want to include additional drivers' name or coverage, such as for special perils. It would be even better to have a life insurance or takaful plan.
10. Have emergency items such as road flare/emergency triangle, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, and tyre repair kit handy in your vehicle. You'll never know when they may be needed.