Why does driving make us so angry?

Ever had to deal with an irate motorist?

Exactly where I reside, the query need to most likely be: “Ever come across a motorist who is not mouthing obscenities, flashing their lights, leaning on their horn and creating hand gestures that defy explanation to your kids sitting in the back?”

Or possibly that says far more about my driving than something else.

Be that as it could, it appears road rage is endemic. A staggering 81% of drivers have been victims of road rage, according to a recent survey by Carwow.co.uk.

It is your shout…

Shouting would appear to be the most typical expression of anger. But aggressive or hazardous driving and verbal abuse are also normal occurrences.

And a single in 5 drivers has been threatened in a road rage incident.

But if road rage is so common, how come 51% of us claim we in no way give in to our aggression? Is it genuinely the case that only 30% of us permit anger to get the greater of us when or twice a month, as the survey suggests – or are we also ashamed to ’fess up and admit we do our fair share of yelling and gesticulating?

Authority figures

The authorities have attempted to crack down on road rage by introducing £100 penalties for poor driving habits, such as tailgating and lane hogging.

Quite whether or not this will have the preferred effect remains to be seen. Soon after all, if you’re prone to tantrums that make your veins stand out on your temples, are you actually going to be capable to modify your behaviour at will?

The root of the dilemma is surely woven into how vehicles and driving have an effect on our psychology.

Most of us behave differently when we’re driving. We drop our inhibitions simply because we feel anonymous and immune.

In other words, we make rude gestures at other motorists behind the wheel that we would in no way dream of producing face to face.

Fighting the fury

So while it is tempting to blame road rage on a specific group of issue drivers, we ought to all acknowledge our prospective to drop our rags and feel about how we can avoid confrontation, stress and accidents.

Here’s a couple of ideas:

• enable a lot of time for your journey. If you are late, you are significantly more probably to be aggressive


• do not get behind the wheel if you are upset, angry or unwell (or hungover – a disastrous notion for all manner of causes, not least the truth that you are probably still over the limit)


• don’t permit oneself to be distracted by music, phones, maps or passengers


• do your very best not to antagonize other drivers. So, no lane hogging, inappropriate use of the horn, flashing your headlights, tailgating or cutting-up


• wave an apology if you make a error as the acknowledgement can defuse a potentially explosive situation


• do not competing with other drivers. It is a public highway, not a racetrack


• if somebody else is driving aggressively, don’t make eye contact, shout or gesticulate.

What if you are the victim?

It’s most likely occurred to all of us. You suddenly find your self on the getting finish of a barrage of abuse and aggressive behaviour.

So what’s the greatest approach?

Tailgaters can be specifically intimidating, but you ought to never compromise your own safety. So, do not speed up or brake all of a sudden.

As an alternative, try and discover a safe way to let the tailgater pass. For instance, you might drive twice round a roundabout.

If a driver is persistently aggressive, you may well want to head to a secure, public place and contact the police. Never ever allow an angry driver to comply with you house.

And if the motorist gets out of the car to approach you, lock the doors and don’t open the window. It can also help to make a note of the registration quantity and a description of the driver and the vehicle.

Temper your temper

It’s not constantly easy to remain calm on the roads, specially if you are stuck in heavy visitors or reduce up by an inconsiderate motorist. But losing your temper is not going to assist.

In reality, it is more probably to make items worse.

So next time you really feel the anger rising, take a deep breath, smile and count to 8.

Why does driving make us so angry?

Why does driving make us so angry?

Ever had to deal with an irate motorist?

Exactly where I reside, the question should possibly be: “Ever come across a motorist who isn’t mouthing obscenities, flashing their lights, leaning on their horn and creating hand gestures that defy explanation to your kids sitting in the back?”

Or maybe that says more about my driving than something else.

Be that as it might, it seems road rage is endemic. A staggering 81% of drivers have been victims of road rage, according to a current survey by Carwow.co.uk.

It is your shout…

Shouting would look to be the most typical expression of anger. But aggressive or harmful driving and verbal abuse are also regular occurrences.

And 1 in 5 drivers has been threatened in a road rage incident.

But if road rage is so frequent, how come 51% of us claim we never ever give in to our aggression? Is it genuinely the case that only 30% of us permit anger to get the far better of us when or twice a month, as the survey suggests – or are we too ashamed to ’fess up and admit we do our fair share of yelling and gesticulating?

Authority figures

The authorities have tried to crack down on road rage by introducing £100 penalties for poor driving habits, such as tailgating and lane hogging.

Very whether or not this will have the desired impact remains to be noticed. Following all, if you are prone to tantrums that make your veins stand out on your temples, are you genuinely going to be capable to modify your behaviour at will?

The root of the issue is certainly woven into how vehicles and driving impact our psychology.

Most of us behave differently when we’re driving. We shed our inhibitions simply because we feel anonymous and immune.

In other words, we make rude gestures at other motorists behind the wheel that we would never dream of making face to face.

Fighting the fury

So although it is tempting to blame road rage on a distinct group of issue drivers, we must all acknowledge our possible to drop our rags and consider about how we can avoid confrontation, stress and accidents.

Here’s a few ideas:

• let plenty of time for your journey. If you are late, you are significantly a lot more probably to be aggressive


• don’t get behind the wheel if you are upset, angry or unwell (or hungover – a disastrous thought for all manner of reasons, not least the reality that you are possibly nonetheless over the limit)


• don’t allow your self to be distracted by music, phones, maps or passengers


• do your very best not to antagonize other drivers. So, no lane hogging, inappropriate use of the horn, flashing your headlights, tailgating or cutting-up


• wave an apology if you make a error as the acknowledgement can defuse a potentially explosive predicament


• do not competing with other drivers. It is a public highway, not a racetrack


• if somebody else is driving aggressively, don’t make eye speak to, shout or gesticulate.

What if you’re the victim?

It is probably happened to all of us. You all of a sudden find your self on the receiving end of a barrage of abuse and aggressive behaviour.

So what’s the ideal strategy?

Tailgaters can be particularly intimidating, but you need to in no way compromise your own security. So, do not speed up or brake all of a sudden.

As an alternative, try and discover a protected way to let the tailgater pass. For example, you may well drive twice round a roundabout.

If a driver is persistently aggressive, you may possibly want to head to a secure, public location and get in touch with the police. By no means allow an angry driver to follow you house.

And if the motorist gets out of the vehicle to strategy you, lock the doors and do not open the window. It can also support to make a note of the registration number and a description of the driver and the vehicle.

Temper your temper

It is not often straightforward to stay calm on the roads, specially if you are stuck in heavy site visitors or reduce up by an inconsiderate motorist. But losing your temper is not going to help.

In truth, it is far more probably to make things worse.

So next time you feel the anger rising, take a deep breath, smile and count to 8.

Why does driving make us so angry?

Why does driving make us so angry?

Ever had to deal with an irate motorist?

Where I live, the query ought to most likely be: “Ever come across a motorist who isn’t mouthing obscenities, flashing their lights, leaning on their horn and creating hand gestures that defy explanation to your kids sitting in the back?”

Or possibly that says much more about my driving than anything else.

Be that as it might, it appears road rage is endemic. A staggering 81% of drivers have been victims of road rage, according to a current survey by Carwow.co.uk.

It is your shout…

Shouting would appear to be the most frequent expression of anger. But aggressive or hazardous driving and verbal abuse are also typical occurrences.

And a single in 5 drivers has been threatened in a road rage incident.

But if road rage is so frequent, how come 51% of us claim we never give in to our aggression? Is it genuinely the case that only 30% of us permit anger to get the far better of us as soon as or twice a month, as the survey suggests – or are we also ashamed to ’fess up and admit we do our fair share of yelling and gesticulating?

Authority figures

The authorities have tried to crack down on road rage by introducing £100 penalties for poor driving habits, such as tailgating and lane hogging.

Really no matter whether this will have the preferred impact remains to be noticed. Following all, if you’re prone to tantrums that make your veins stand out on your temples, are you truly going to be capable to modify your behaviour at will?

The root of the difficulty is surely woven into how cars and driving have an effect on our psychology.

Most of us behave differently when we’re driving. We shed our inhibitions because we feel anonymous and immune.

In other words, we make rude gestures at other motorists behind the wheel that we would in no way dream of making face to face.

Fighting the fury

So while it is tempting to blame road rage on a certain group of problem drivers, we must all acknowledge our prospective to shed our rags and think about how we can avoid confrontation, anxiety and accidents.

Here’s a couple of suggestions:

• enable lots of time for your journey. If you are late, you are considerably far more most likely to be aggressive


• do not get behind the wheel if you are upset, angry or unwell (or hungover – a disastrous concept for all manner of factors, not least the reality that you are most likely still more than the limit)


• do not permit your self to be distracted by music, phones, maps or passengers


• do your very best not to antagonize other drivers. So, no lane hogging, inappropriate use of the horn, flashing your headlights, tailgating or cutting-up


• wave an apology if you make a mistake as the acknowledgement can defuse a potentially explosive predicament


• don’t competing with other drivers. It is a public highway, not a racetrack


• if someone else is driving aggressively, don’t make eye contact, shout or gesticulate.

What if you are the victim?

It’s almost certainly happened to all of us. You all of a sudden discover your self on the receiving end of a barrage of abuse and aggressive behaviour.

So what’s the best strategy?

Tailgaters can be especially intimidating, but you must never compromise your own safety. So, don’t speed up or brake suddenly.

Alternatively, attempt and find a protected way to let the tailgater pass. For instance, you may possibly drive twice round a roundabout.

If a driver is persistently aggressive, you may well want to head to a protected, public place and contact the police. In no way permit an angry driver to stick to you home.

And if the motorist gets out of the vehicle to method you, lock the doors and do not open the window. It can also assist to make a note of the registration quantity and a description of the driver and the automobile.

Temper your temper

It is not always straightforward to stay calm on the roads, specifically if you are stuck in heavy traffic or reduce up by an inconsiderate motorist. But losing your temper isn’t going to assist.

In reality, it is much more most likely to make issues worse.

So next time you really feel the anger rising, take a deep breath, smile and count to 10.

Why does driving make us so angry?

Why does driving make us so angry?

Ever had to deal with an irate motorist?

Where I live, the question should probably be: “Ever come across a motorist who isn’t mouthing obscenities, flashing their lights, leaning on their horn and making hand gestures that defy explanation to your children sitting in the back?”

Or maybe that says more about my driving than anything else.

Be that as it may, it seems road rage is endemic. A staggering 81% of drivers have been victims of road rage, according to a recent survey by Carwow.co.uk.

It’s your shout…

Shouting would seem to be the most common expression of anger. But aggressive or dangerous driving and verbal abuse are also regular occurrences.

And one in 5 drivers has been threatened in a road rage incident.

But if road rage is so common, how come 51% of us claim we never give in to our aggression? Is it really the case that only 30% of us allow anger to get the better of us once or twice a month, as the survey suggests – or are we too ashamed to ’fess up and admit we do our fair share of yelling and gesticulating?

Authority figures

The authorities have tried to crack down on road rage by introducing £100 penalties for poor driving habits, such as tailgating and lane hogging.

Quite whether this will have the desired effect remains to be seen. After all, if you’re prone to tantrums that make your veins stand out on your temples, are you really going to be able to modify your behaviour at will?

The root of the problem is surely woven into how cars and driving affect our psychology.

Most of us behave differently when we’re driving. We lose our inhibitions because we feel anonymous and immune.

In other words, we make rude gestures at other motorists behind the wheel that we would never dream of making face to face.

Fighting the fury

So while it’s tempting to blame road rage on a specific group of problem drivers, we should all acknowledge our potential to lose our rags and think about how we can avoid confrontation, stress and accidents.

Here’s a few suggestions:

• allow plenty of time for your journey. If you are late, you are much more likely to be aggressive


• don’t get behind the wheel if you are upset, angry or unwell (or hungover – a disastrous idea for all manner of reasons, not least the fact that you’re probably still over the limit)


• don’t allow yourself to be distracted by music, phones, maps or passengers


• do your best not to antagonize other drivers. So, no lane hogging, inappropriate use of the horn, flashing your headlights, tailgating or cutting-up


• wave an apology if you make a mistake as the acknowledgement can defuse a potentially explosive situation


• don’t competing with other drivers. It’s a public highway, not a racetrack


• if someone else is driving aggressively, don’t make eye contact, shout or gesticulate.

What if you’re the victim?

It’s probably happened to all of us. You suddenly find yourself on the receiving end of a barrage of abuse and aggressive behaviour.

So what’s the best strategy?

Tailgaters can be particularly intimidating, but you should never compromise your own safety. So, don’t speed up or brake suddenly.

Instead, try and find a safe way to let the tailgater pass. For example, you might drive twice round a roundabout.

If a driver is persistently aggressive, you might want to head to a safe, public place and call the police. Never allow an angry driver to follow you home.

And if the motorist gets out of the car to approach you, lock the doors and don’t open the window. It can also help to make a note of the registration number and a description of the driver and the car.

Temper your temper

It’s not always easy to stay calm on the roads, especially if you are stuck in heavy traffic or cut up by an inconsiderate motorist. But losing your temper isn’t going to help.

In fact, it is more likely to make things worse.

So next time you feel the anger rising, take a deep breath, smile and count to 10.

Why does driving make us so angry?

Why does driving make us so angry?

Ever had to deal with an irate motorist?

Exactly where I live, the question ought to probably be: “Ever come across a motorist who is not mouthing obscenities, flashing their lights, leaning on their horn and generating hand gestures that defy explanation to your kids sitting in the back?”

Or maybe that says far more about my driving than something else.

Be that as it may, it seems road rage is endemic. A staggering 81% of drivers have been victims of road rage, according to a current survey by Carwow.co.uk.

It’s your shout…

Shouting would seem to be the most frequent expression of anger. But aggressive or hazardous driving and verbal abuse are also normal occurrences.

And a single in 5 drivers has been threatened in a road rage incident.

But if road rage is so frequent, how come 51% of us claim we never ever give in to our aggression? Is it really the case that only 30% of us enable anger to get the far better of us once or twice a month, as the survey suggests – or are we too ashamed to ’fess up and admit we do our fair share of yelling and gesticulating?

Authority figures

The authorities have tried to crack down on road rage by introducing £100 penalties for poor driving habits, such as tailgating and lane hogging.

Very whether this will have the desired impact remains to be noticed. After all, if you are prone to tantrums that make your veins stand out on your temples, are you genuinely going to be in a position to modify your behaviour at will?

The root of the issue is surely woven into how vehicles and driving have an effect on our psychology.

Most of us behave differently when we’re driving. We shed our inhibitions because we feel anonymous and immune.

In other words, we make rude gestures at other motorists behind the wheel that we would never dream of generating face to face.

Fighting the fury

So whilst it is tempting to blame road rage on a certain group of dilemma drivers, we should all acknowledge our prospective to shed our rags and believe about how we can steer clear of confrontation, stress and accidents.

Here’s a handful of ideas:

• enable plenty of time for your journey. If you are late, you are a lot a lot more most likely to be aggressive


• don’t get behind the wheel if you are upset, angry or unwell (or hungover – a disastrous thought for all manner of causes, not least the fact that you’re probably nevertheless more than the limit)


• do not enable your self to be distracted by music, phones, maps or passengers


• do your very best not to antagonize other drivers. So, no lane hogging, inappropriate use of the horn, flashing your headlights, tailgating or cutting-up


• wave an apology if you make a mistake as the acknowledgement can defuse a potentially explosive predicament


• don’t competing with other drivers. It’s a public highway, not a racetrack


• if a person else is driving aggressively, don’t make eye get in touch with, shout or gesticulate.

What if you’re the victim?

It is most likely happened to all of us. You abruptly uncover oneself on the receiving end of a barrage of abuse and aggressive behaviour.

So what’s the best method?

Tailgaters can be particularly intimidating, but you should never ever compromise your personal safety. So, do not speed up or brake all of a sudden.

Instead, try and locate a protected way to let the tailgater pass. For instance, you may possibly drive twice round a roundabout.

If a driver is persistently aggressive, you may want to head to a safe, public location and call the police. Never allow an angry driver to stick to you property.

And if the motorist gets out of the vehicle to strategy you, lock the doors and do not open the window. It can also assist to make a note of the registration number and a description of the driver and the automobile.

Temper your temper

It’s not constantly easy to keep calm on the roads, specifically if you are stuck in heavy targeted traffic or cut up by an inconsiderate motorist. But losing your temper is not going to help.

In truth, it is more likely to make things worse.

So next time you feel the anger increasing, take a deep breath, smile and count to 8.

Why does driving make us so angry?

Why does driving make us so angry?

Ever had to deal with an irate motorist?

Exactly where I reside, the question ought to possibly be: “Ever come across a motorist who is not mouthing obscenities, flashing their lights, leaning on their horn and producing hand gestures that defy explanation to your youngsters sitting in the back?”

Or maybe that says much more about my driving than something else.

Be that as it might, it seems road rage is endemic. A staggering 81% of drivers have been victims of road rage, according to a recent survey by Carwow.co.uk.

It’s your shout…

Shouting would appear to be the most common expression of anger. But aggressive or hazardous driving and verbal abuse are also normal occurrences.

And one in 5 drivers has been threatened in a road rage incident.

But if road rage is so common, how come 51% of us claim we in no way give in to our aggression? Is it actually the case that only 30% of us permit anger to get the much better of us after or twice a month, as the survey suggests – or are we too ashamed to ’fess up and admit we do our fair share of yelling and gesticulating?

Authority figures

The authorities have attempted to crack down on road rage by introducing £100 penalties for poor driving habits, such as tailgating and lane hogging.

Quite whether this will have the preferred effect remains to be seen. After all, if you are prone to tantrums that make your veins stand out on your temples, are you genuinely going to be capable to modify your behaviour at will?

The root of the difficulty is surely woven into how cars and driving impact our psychology.

Most of us behave differently when we’re driving. We lose our inhibitions because we feel anonymous and immune.

In other words, we make rude gestures at other motorists behind the wheel that we would in no way dream of generating face to face.

Fighting the fury

So whilst it is tempting to blame road rage on a particular group of dilemma drivers, we must all acknowledge our prospective to drop our rags and consider about how we can stay away from confrontation, pressure and accidents.

Here’s a handful of recommendations:

• enable a lot of time for your journey. If you are late, you are a lot more probably to be aggressive


• do not get behind the wheel if you are upset, angry or unwell (or hungover – a disastrous idea for all manner of reasons, not least the reality that you’re almost certainly still more than the limit)


• do not permit your self to be distracted by music, phones, maps or passengers


• do your best not to antagonize other drivers. So, no lane hogging, inappropriate use of the horn, flashing your headlights, tailgating or cutting-up


• wave an apology if you make a error as the acknowledgement can defuse a potentially explosive situation


• don’t competing with other drivers. It’s a public highway, not a racetrack


• if somebody else is driving aggressively, do not make eye get in touch with, shout or gesticulate.

What if you are the victim?

It’s most likely occurred to all of us. You suddenly locate yourself on the getting end of a barrage of abuse and aggressive behaviour.

So what’s the best strategy?

Tailgaters can be especially intimidating, but you need to by no means compromise your own security. So, don’t speed up or brake abruptly.

Instead, attempt and uncover a safe way to let the tailgater pass. For example, you may possibly drive twice round a roundabout.

If a driver is persistently aggressive, you may well want to head to a protected, public location and call the police. Never allow an angry driver to adhere to you property.

And if the motorist gets out of the car to strategy you, lock the doors and do not open the window. It can also help to make a note of the registration number and a description of the driver and the auto.

Temper your temper

It is not often easy to keep calm on the roads, specially if you are stuck in heavy visitors or reduce up by an inconsiderate motorist. But losing your temper is not going to help.

In reality, it is much more most likely to make factors worse.

So next time you feel the anger increasing, take a deep breath, smile and count to 10.

Why does driving make us so angry?

Up-to-speed with off-road driving?

Off-road driving may well look like a lot of entertaining, but if you are not cautious you could finish up facing costly auto repairs – or even find oneself on the wrong side of the law.

We’ve all seen these ads displaying rugged 4x4s tackling extreme terrain, but tempting as it perhaps to follow suit and head off-road in your personal automobile, you’ll need to swot up on a couple of groundrules 1st.

Is your auto up to off-roading?

If you are organizing on taking your automobile down a moderately bumpy off-road track at no excellent speed, then most automobiles will be up to the job.

Even so, if it is serious off-roading you’re considering, which involves driving on rocky, steep or exceptionally muddy or wet terrain, something other than a 4×4 is most likely to come to grief.

Here’s HonestJohn.co.uk’s list of the best 10 autos for off-road use:

• Land Rover Defender


• Mercedes Benz G-Class assessment


• Land Rover Discovery


• Nissan Patrol


• Toyota Land Cruiser


• Mitsubushi Shogun


• Variety Rover


• Fiat Panda 4×4


• Suzuki Jimny


• Jeep Grand Cherokee

What sticky circumstance did a footballer get himself into following driving off-road?

Tyred and emotional

If you do own 1 of these vehicles, or another make of 4×4, don’t assume that you will be okay to right away start off driving off-road – you’ll want to check what tyres you have very first.

The very best tyres for owners who want to use their vehicles both on and off-road are recognized as ‘All Terrain’ tyres.

These may be supplied as an optional added when you get your automobile, so make confident you request them if off-roading is on the agenda.

Yet another alternative you might want to think about are ‘Mud Terrain’ tyres.

There, as the name suggests, are designed to cope with particularly muddy conditions, and are most suitable for folks who will spend around 80% of their time off-road, such as farmers.

They are not recommended for drivers who will clock up a substantial quantity of road miles as big tread gaps mean that braking distances are considerably longer in wet climate.

Off-road, on cover?

If you’re arranging on driving off-road, then get in touch with your insurer to see if you are covered.

Probabilities are you will require specialist 4×4 off-road insurance. Premiums for this sort of cover will cost much more than for a traditional policy, as there’s a higher threat of harm to your car.

Adrian Flux and NFU Mutual are amongst the insurers which offer this variety of cover.

Track modifications

Do not assume you can simply drive off down any old track if you’re searching for a bit of off-road action.

According to Section 34 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is illegal to drive a motor car on widespread land, moorland, Forestry Commission land, or in truth ANY land which is not element of a road with no authorisation.

That implies you must get permission from the landowner initial, or threat a heavy fine or even attainable confiscation of your automobile.

Keys to the byway

The only ‘off-road’ areas you can drive with no looking for permission are identified as ‘Byways Open to All Traffic’ (BOATs), or Roads Utilized as a Public Path (RUPPs) both of which should be marked on Ordnance Survey maps.

Even if you are driving legally on a single of these roads or byways, you must make confident that you do not result in damage either to the atmosphere or wildlife.

If you do, you could end up in big trouble with the England and Wales Forestry Commission, who have the power to seize your vehicle if they take into account it necessary.

If you are in any doubt about where it’s legal and safe to drive off-road, it is a excellent idea to seek the advice of the British Off-Road Driving Association (BORDA) initial.

This is the UK’s only expert Association committed to off-road driving at authorised venues throughout the UK. Uncover out much more at www.borda.org.uk.

Recovery position

The brief answer is no, so if you’re planning on going off-road, you must be prepared to foot recovery charges your self if something goes wrong (and preferably have a buddy with a winch and a 4×4 themselves.)

Verify the small print of your breakdown cover if you are uncertain, but most providers clearly state that they won’t cover you if your automobile is involved in motor racing, off-road driving, rallies or track days.

They also won’t come out if your vehicle breaks down in a location they can not get to.

Off-road driving suggestions

You have got the proper vehicle, the appropriate tyres, the appropriate insurance and you have identified a legal route to drive on – but are you up to speed with off-road driving strategies?

The following suggestions may possibly sound obvious, but it just takes one little mistake to finish up in critical difficulty, so ignore them at your peril.

• If you are travelling up a sharp incline, check there is a clear route for you to exit at the top. Make confident as well that there are no massive rocks or other hazards, as you will not be capable to see these when you’re driving.


• When you’re driving down a steep hill off-road, remain in 1st gear and go down slowly, Go as well rapidly and you could finish up with the front of your automobile buried in mud.


• Travel at a reduced speed when driving by way of water. This will assist guarantee you don’t flood the engine. If you are not specific how deep the water is, or no matter whether there’s a firm surface underneath, do not danger it.

Up-to-speed with off-road driving?

Protected driving ideas for Easter

Millions of motorists are anticipated to hit the roads this Easter.

But no matter whether you are visiting relatives or heading on off a loved ones getaway, it’s crucial to take actions to keep you and your valuable passengers secure.

That is why we’ve come up with some leading tips to make your automobile journeys this weekend as secure and painless as achievable.

Stick to speed limits Including decreased ones

Roadworks can be a large dilemma at peak travel instances such as the Easter bank vacation weekend.

Simon Sheldon-Wilson at Highways England stated: “We’ve worked closely with other transport providers to make sure our ne2rk can cope with elevated demand, and we’re pleased to say that 96.8% of our roads will be cost-free of work to aid Easter road trips go smoothly.”

Hmmm. Fingers crossed on that one particular. And even if operates are completed or suspended, there will still be speed restrictions on some sections of road across the nation, though.

And drivers need to have to respect these, as nicely as the general speed limits in place to avoid endangering themselves and other road users.

Do not cease on the difficult shoulder unless you HAVE NO OTHER Decision

Stopping on the challenging shoulder may appear like a great idea if you require to make a phone contact or an individual in the automobile feels sick.

But selecting to pull more than even just for a minute could prove to be the worst choice you ever created.

Non-emergency use of the hard shoulder can land you with a fine of £100, plus 3 penalty points on your driving licence.

Worse nevertheless, it typically leads to horrible crashes and untimely deaths.

Investigation conducted in 2013 by breakdown organisation Survive revealed that a lot more than 800 people are killed or injured on motorway difficult shoulders every year.

And separate figures indicate that the typical time it requires for a car on the difficult shoulder to be involved in a collision is just 15 to 20 minutes.

That is why the AA is warning Easter drivers to only quit on the challenging shoulder if there genuinely is no other alternative.

Mark Spowage at the AA said: “It’s ideal to attempt to drive to a safer location off the motorway rather than stopping on the difficult shoulder, even in the event of a breakdown.”

Difficult shoulder tactics

– Cease as far to the left as attainable with your wheels turned to the left

– Leave your sidelights and hazard warning lights on

– Get everybody out of the car by the left-hand door and away from the road

– Do not try to location a red triangle behind the car – is just too dangerous

– Only contact for assist after everybody is safely out of the car and away from the road, preferably up a banking or behind a barrier.

Steer clear of visitors hotspots and unsafe climate conditions

Bank holiday weekends in the UK are infamous for targeted traffic jams.

But with a bit of forward preparing, you can hit the primary problems spots at less busy instances and stay away from hazardous climate such as driving rain and higher winds.

To aid you decide on the correct route, Highways England has published a list of hotspots, such as the M4 eastbound from junction 4 to one particular and the M6 northbound from junction 15 to 16, that are probably to get congested.

Check your vehicle is roadworthy

The probabilities of breaking down and possessing to quit in a hazardous spot are significantly enhanced if you fail to check that your vehicle is in great condition ahead of embarking on an Easter journey.

So, say there’s a weird noise coming from your engine, you could save oneself a lot of difficulty – not to mention cash – by getting it sorted now.

You must also check the oil and water levels just before setting off on a extended journey.

And don’t forget to verify the air pressure in your tyres is at the level advisable by the manufacturer also.

Protected driving ideas for Easter

What do I need to know about driving a tractor on a public road?

Question:

Good day I am wondering if you may help me please. I am a farmer, our farms are 30km apart. We need to move equipment and tractors between the farm for seasonal operations. Our tractors are licensed along with the driver. Our problem is this. Each officer we speak to has a different version of the rules of the road.

What we want to know please is how far may we travel on the road? How wide can the equipment be and what code of license is required?
Answer:

As long as the tractor has a normal licence (not a S licence in terms of reg 21 – for tractors that are normally not used on public roads) and the driver is licensed the vehicle may travel anywhere on a public road. If the vehicle has an S licence it may only cross the road within one kilometre.

There is no exemption for a driver – he must have a licence if he drives on a public road.

If the vehicle is wider than 2.6 metres the exemptions in reg 220 and 230apply.

I copy them for you.Certain vehicles exempt from certain provisions of this Part

Reg 220.    (1)        …..

(2)        Any vehicle, including a tractor, which is not a goods vehicle and which is used solely for bona fide agricultural, horticultural, viticultural or pastoral pursuits and when operated on a public road, shall, except for the provisions of regulations 149, 149A, 151, 153, 154, 155, 156, 200, 202, 203, 204, 205, 209, 210 and 212, be excluded from the provisions of this part: Provided that—

(a)        no such vehicle shall be operated on the roadway of a public road during the period between sunset and sunrise and at any other time when, due to insufficient light or unfavourable weather conditions, persons and vehicles upon the public road would not be clearly discernible at a distance of 150 metres;

(b)        the driver of any such vehicle on the roadway of a public road shall stop such vehicle and, where possible, drive it off the roadway if it be necessary in order to allow other vehicular traffic to pass;

(c)        no such vehicle shall be operated on a freeway.

(3)       A motor vehicle manufactured before 1965 is exempt from any provisions of this Part in so far as the fitment of the equipment required in terms of this Part will alter the original design and equipment of such motor vehicle.

Certain vehicles exempt from provisions of this Part

Reg 230.    (1)        …..

(2)        Any vehicle, including a tractor, which is not a goods vehicle and which is used solely for bona fide agricultural, horticultural, viticultural or pastoral pursuits and when operated on a public road, is exempt from the provisions of this Part, except for the provisions of regulation 224: Provided that—

(a)        no such vehicle shall be operated on the roadway of a public road during the period between sunset and sunrise and at any other time when, due to insufficient light or unfavourable weather conditions, persons and vehicles upon the public road would not be clearly discernible at a distance of 150 metres;

(b)        the driver of any such vehicle on the roadway of a public road shall stop such vehicle and, where possible, drive it off the roadway if it be necessary in order to allow other vehicular traffic to pass;

(c)        where such vehicle—

(i)         exceeds the overall length prescribed in regulation 221;

(ii)        encroaches beyond half the width of the roadway except when overtaking other vehicles or crossing bridges; or

(iii)       is more than 2 comma 6 metres but less than 3 and a half metres wide,

2 flags of red cloth shall be displayed not less than 600 millimetres by 600 millimetres in such manner as to indicate its abnormal length or width and such flags shall be suspended from the vehicle transversely to the direction of travel, but the vehicle may be fitted with amber flashing lights in lieu of such flags; and

(d)        the overall width of any such vehicle shall not exceed 4 and a half metres: Provided further that when the overall width exceeds 3 and a half metres—

(i)         such vehicle shall not normally encroach beyond half the width of the roadway except when overtaking other vehicles or crossing bridges; and

(ii)        if such vehicle does encroach beyond half the width of the roadway, 2 escort vehicles with the headlamps switched on and displaying red flags of the size prescribed in paragraph (c) or amber flashing lights shall be provided, one travelling in front and one to the rear of such vehicle;

(e)        no such vehicle shall be operated on a freeway.

Alta

Alta Swanepoel & Associates

What do I need to know about driving a tractor on a public road?

What do I need to know about driving a tractor on a public road?

Question:

Good day I am wondering if you may help me please. I am a farmer, our farms are 30km apart. We need to move equipment and tractors between the farm for seasonal operations. Our tractors are licensed along with the driver. Our problem is this. Each officer we speak to has a different version of the rules of the road.

What we want to know please is how far may we travel on the road? How wide can the equipment be and what code of license is required?
Answer:

As long as the tractor has a normal licence (not a S licence in terms of reg 21 – for tractors that are normally not used on public roads) and the driver is licensed the vehicle may travel anywhere on a public road. If the vehicle has an S licence it may only cross the road within one kilometre.

There is no exemption for a driver – he must have a licence if he drives on a public road.

If the vehicle is wider than 2.6 metres the exemptions in reg 220 and 230apply.

I copy them for you.Certain vehicles exempt from certain provisions of this Part

Reg 220.    (1)        …..

(2)        Any vehicle, including a tractor, which is not a goods vehicle and which is used solely for bona fide agricultural, horticultural, viticultural or pastoral pursuits and when operated on a public road, shall, except for the provisions of regulations 149, 149A, 151, 153, 154, 155, 156, 200, 202, 203, 204, 205, 209, 210 and 212, be excluded from the provisions of this part: Provided that—

(a)        no such vehicle shall be operated on the roadway of a public road during the period between sunset and sunrise and at any other time when, due to insufficient light or unfavourable weather conditions, persons and vehicles upon the public road would not be clearly discernible at a distance of 150 metres;

(b)        the driver of any such vehicle on the roadway of a public road shall stop such vehicle and, where possible, drive it off the roadway if it be necessary in order to allow other vehicular traffic to pass;

(c)        no such vehicle shall be operated on a freeway.

(3)       A motor vehicle manufactured before 1965 is exempt from any provisions of this Part in so far as the fitment of the equipment required in terms of this Part will alter the original design and equipment of such motor vehicle.

Certain vehicles exempt from provisions of this Part

Reg 230.    (1)        …..

(2)        Any vehicle, including a tractor, which is not a goods vehicle and which is used solely for bona fide agricultural, horticultural, viticultural or pastoral pursuits and when operated on a public road, is exempt from the provisions of this Part, except for the provisions of regulation 224: Provided that—

(a)        no such vehicle shall be operated on the roadway of a public road during the period between sunset and sunrise and at any other time when, due to insufficient light or unfavourable weather conditions, persons and vehicles upon the public road would not be clearly discernible at a distance of 150 metres;

(b)        the driver of any such vehicle on the roadway of a public road shall stop such vehicle and, where possible, drive it off the roadway if it be necessary in order to allow other vehicular traffic to pass;

(c)        where such vehicle—

(i)         exceeds the overall length prescribed in regulation 221;

(ii)        encroaches beyond half the width of the roadway except when overtaking other vehicles or crossing bridges; or

(iii)       is more than 2 comma 6 metres but less than 3 and a half metres wide,

2 flags of red cloth shall be displayed not less than 600 millimetres by 600 millimetres in such manner as to indicate its abnormal length or width and such flags shall be suspended from the vehicle transversely to the direction of travel, but the vehicle may be fitted with amber flashing lights in lieu of such flags; and

(d)        the overall width of any such vehicle shall not exceed 4 and a half metres: Provided further that when the overall width exceeds 3 and a half metres—

(i)         such vehicle shall not normally encroach beyond half the width of the roadway except when overtaking other vehicles or crossing bridges; and

(ii)        if such vehicle does encroach beyond half the width of the roadway, 2 escort vehicles with the headlamps switched on and displaying red flags of the size prescribed in paragraph (c) or amber flashing lights shall be provided, one travelling in front and one to the rear of such vehicle;

(e)        no such vehicle shall be operated on a freeway.

Alta

Alta Swanepoel & Associates

What do I need to know about driving a tractor on a public road?

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

On the Arrive Alive website we share information on the need for defensive driving and some rather challenging conditions on our roads. We believe that too few drivers adjust their speed and driving style to the road, traffic and weather conditions. We decided to raise a few questions with safe driving specialist Eugene Herbert specifically with regards to driving in the mountains:

Would you agree that we do not “test” ability to drive mountain passes before licensing drivers and allowing them to drive in mountainous areas?  

Yes a driver should be licenced before attempting to drive mountain passes. A driver should have gained some experience in driving on roads before any attempts are made in mountains.

What in your experience are the major causes of crashes in mountain passes?

The main cause is limited forward vision and positioning for the corners and bends that extends forward vision. A driver begins to look at the inside of the bend without lifting the vision to look through the corner. Drivers are frequently caught out by bends that a sharper than initially thought.

How important is driving experience in navigating dangerous mountain passes?

Driving experience is important in driving on any roads but because of the demanding nature of mountain passes – especially so.

What are the major adjustments required to driving technique when having to drive mountain passes?

Selection of a correct gear for ascents or descents is very important as this will control the speed of the vehicle. Drivers often are reluctant to engage the suitable gear before dealing with any hills and are often caught out trying to engage a lower gear in corners or bends. Forward vision and looking through corners is essential as by doing this it gives the driver the complete picture of how to negotiate a bend etc.

What would be the best suggestions to offer drivers not familiar to driving in mountainous areas when:

-           Driving up the mountain Be especially aware of slow moving trucks that are crawling up or down the mountain pass. Their extremely slow speed often catches or road users out and cause problems

-          Driving down the mountain  Also drive down a maintain pass in the same gear as you would drive up the pass. This will control your speed of decent by engine compression and avoid long periods of braking cause the brakes to over heat

Are there special considerations to take into account with regards to vehicle roadworthiness/ readiness when having to drive in mountainous areas?

An exterior and interior check is essential and the vehicle must be roadworthy with a good service record

Any specific advice or caution when towing a trailer or caravan?

A major concern it descending with a trailer or caravan. Engage the correct gear before the decent to control the speed of decent and use the straight roads for braking to avoid braking in a bend

Also view:

Safe Driving in the Mountains/ Mountain Passes

Defensive Driving and Road Safety

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

On the Arrive Alive website we share information on the need for defensive driving and some rather challenging conditions on our roads. We believe that too few drivers adjust their speed and driving style to the road, traffic and weather conditions. We decided to raise a few questions with safe driving specialist Eugene Herbert specifically with regards to driving in the mountains:

Would you agree that we do not “test” ability to drive mountain passes before licensing drivers and allowing them to drive in mountainous areas?  

Yes a driver should be licenced before attempting to drive mountain passes. A driver should have gained some experience in driving on roads before any attempts are made in mountains.

What in your experience are the major causes of crashes in mountain passes?

The main cause is limited forward vision and positioning for the corners and bends that extends forward vision. A driver begins to look at the inside of the bend without lifting the vision to look through the corner. Drivers are frequently caught out by bends that a sharper than initially thought.

How important is driving experience in navigating dangerous mountain passes?

Driving experience is important in driving on any roads but because of the demanding nature of mountain passes – especially so.

What are the major adjustments required to driving technique when having to drive mountain passes?

Selection of a correct gear for ascents or descents is very important as this will control the speed of the vehicle. Drivers often are reluctant to engage the suitable gear before dealing with any hills and are often caught out trying to engage a lower gear in corners or bends. Forward vision and looking through corners is essential as by doing this it gives the driver the complete picture of how to negotiate a bend etc.

What would be the best suggestions to offer drivers not familiar to driving in mountainous areas when:

-           Driving up the mountain Be especially aware of slow moving trucks that are crawling up or down the mountain pass. Their extremely slow speed often catches or road users out and cause problems

-          Driving down the mountain  Also drive down a maintain pass in the same gear as you would drive up the pass. This will control your speed of decent by engine compression and avoid long periods of braking cause the brakes to over heat

Are there special considerations to take into account with regards to vehicle roadworthiness/ readiness when having to drive in mountainous areas?

An exterior and interior check is essential and the vehicle must be roadworthy with a good service record

Any specific advice or caution when towing a trailer or caravan?

A major concern it descending with a trailer or caravan. Engage the correct gear before the decent to control the speed of decent and use the straight roads for braking to avoid braking in a bend

Also view:

Safe Driving in the Mountains/ Mountain Passes

Defensive Driving and Road Safety

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

Driving in France? Regardez bien!

Road accident deaths in France shot up by nearly 4% final year, hitting a total of close to 3,400. And the French government is determined to avert them going up once again in 2015.

To that end, it has introduced a raft of measures made to quit men and women putting lives in danger by drink driving and utilizing their mobile phones at the wheel – one thing you will require to be conscious of if you are driving on French roads this year.

As nicely as lowering the legal alcohol limit for young drivers, the new regime bans the use of hands-free kits utilised by drivers to make calls at the wheel and lowers the age at which teenagers can commence driving beneath supervision.

France – a harmful place to drive

The number of folks who died on French roads in 2014 rose 3.7% year-on-year to a depressingly high 3,388.

Evaluate that to the 1,713 people killed on UK roads in 2013 (the most current year for which statistics are offered). France has a slightly larger population (66 million) than the UK (64 million) but it’s a larger landmass with a lot more roads, so you’d feel the quantity of fatalities would be on a par.

But probably the most telling statistic is that UK fatalities in 2013 in fact fell by 2.3%, and the lengthy term trend in the UK is downwards. Apart from 2011, deaths have fallen in quantity each year because 2004.

So why this evident French malaise.

Drinking difficulty

Maybe it plays to national stereotypes, but it turns out that alcohol-connected accidents came out as the quantity one killer in France.

And as a person who has spent years living in France, that does not come as a excellent surprise to me. French folks have a rather various attitude to us Brits when it comes to drink-driving.

Although getting behind the wheel when you’re tipsy right here is rapidly becoming a deep social taboo, it’s broadly accepted in France – or at least it is in the rural places exactly where I have spent most of my time.

That’s why I welcome efforts to crack down on drink driving. And I reckon the most powerful way to prevent alcohol-associated road deaths, at least in rural areas, would be to invest in much better public transport or find a way of lowering the usually astronomical expense of a taxi ride.

How the government is tackling the dilemma

In February, Bernard Cazeneuve, the French Interior Minister, announced particulars of no fewer than 26 measures developed to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities by 2020:

• Zero tolerance on alcohol for young drivers

The legal alcohol limit is getting slashed from .5mg/ml to .2mg/ml for young drivers, meaning even one particular half pint – the ubiquitous French “demi” – will push them more than.

• Breathalysers in late-night off licences

Shops selling alcohol between 2am and 7am should provide buyers breathalysers or face penalties and possible closure.

• Earphones and headsets no longer permitted

The use of all sorts of earphones, headsets and hands-totally free kits “that limit the interest of drivers” is getting banned for these in the driving seat.

• Much more “double-face” speed cameras

Whilst the quantity of speed cameras in France – 4,150 – is not set to rise, there will be a lot more “double-faced” speed cameras that can snare drivers travelling in each directions.

• Tinted windows to be banned

Only tinted windscreens are forbidden at the moment, but Cazeneuve intends to extend this ban to cover all car windows in the coming years.

• More space around pedestrian crossings

Only mopeds and motorbikes will be allowed to park within 5 metres of pedestrian crossings.

• Younger drivers on the roads

French teenagers as young as 15 will be capable to drive beneath supervision under the new guidelines.

To France?

If you are driving to France this year, make positive you verify what’s necessary and expected of you prior to you set off.

Spend distinct consideration to setting your headlights properly and carrying the appropriate equipment in case of an accident. You should also carry an authorized breathalyzer.

Full specifics can be found in this 2-portion report.

Driving in France? Regardez bien!

Driving in France? Regardez bien!

Road accident deaths in France shot up by almost 4% final year, hitting a total of close to 3,400. And the French government is determined to prevent them going up again in 2015.

To that end, it has introduced a raft of measures created to cease folks placing lives in danger by drink driving and making use of their mobile phones at the wheel – anything you’ll want to be conscious of if you are driving on French roads this year.

As properly as lowering the legal alcohol limit for young drivers, the new regime bans the use of hands-cost-free kits utilized by drivers to make calls at the wheel and lowers the age at which teenagers can start driving below supervision.

France – a dangerous place to drive

The number of men and women who died on French roads in 2014 rose 3.7% year-on-year to a depressingly high 3,388.

Evaluate that to the 1,713 people killed on UK roads in 2013 (the newest year for which statistics are offered). France has a slightly larger population (66 million) than the UK (64 million) but it’s a larger landmass with more roads, so you’d feel the number of fatalities would be on a par.

But perhaps the most telling statistic is that UK fatalities in 2013 in fact fell by 2.3%, and the lengthy term trend in the UK is downwards. Apart from 2011, deaths have fallen in quantity every year because 2004.

So why this evident French malaise.

Drinking dilemma

Maybe it plays to national stereotypes, but it turns out that alcohol-related accidents came out as the number one killer in France.

And as a person who has spent years living in France, that doesn’t come as a excellent surprise to me. French individuals have a rather various attitude to us Brits when it comes to drink-driving.

Whilst obtaining behind the wheel when you are tipsy right here is quick becoming a deep social taboo, it’s broadly accepted in France – or at least it is in the rural areas exactly where I have spent most of my time.

That is why I welcome efforts to crack down on drink driving. And I reckon the most effective way to avoid alcohol-associated road deaths, at least in rural locations, would be to invest in greater public transport or locate a way of lowering the often astronomical cost of a taxi ride.

How the government is tackling the problem

In February, Bernard Cazeneuve, the French Interior Minister, announced specifics of no fewer than 26 measures developed to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities by 2020:

• Zero tolerance on alcohol for young drivers

The legal alcohol limit is being slashed from .5mg/ml to .2mg/ml for young drivers, which means even 1 half pint – the ubiquitous French “demi” – will push them over.

• Breathalysers in late-evening off licences

Shops promoting alcohol among 2am and 7am have to provide customers breathalysers or face penalties and potential closure.

• Earphones and headsets no longer permitted

The use of all kinds of earphones, headsets and hands-totally free kits “that limit the attention of drivers” is getting banned for those in the driving seat.

• Much more “double-face” speed cameras

Although the quantity of speed cameras in France – 4,150 – is not set to rise, there will be a lot more “double-faced” speed cameras that can snare drivers travelling in both directions.

• Tinted windows to be banned

Only tinted windscreens are forbidden at the moment, but Cazeneuve intends to extend this ban to cover all automobile windows in the coming years.

• Far more space around pedestrian crossings

Only mopeds and motorbikes will be allowed to park inside 5 metres of pedestrian crossings.

• Younger drivers on the roads

French teenagers as young as 15 will be capable to drive beneath supervision beneath the new guidelines.

To France?

If you’re driving to France this year, make positive you verify what’s needed and expected of you just before you set off.

Pay distinct consideration to setting your headlights correctly and carrying the correct equipment in case of an accident. You need to also carry an authorized breathalyzer.

Complete information can be identified in this 2-element post.

Driving in France? Regardez bien!

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

On the Arrive Alive website we share information on the need for defensive driving and some rather challenging conditions on our roads. We believe that too few drivers adjust their speed and driving style to the road, traffic and weather conditions. We decided to raise a few questions with safe driving specialist Eugene Herbert specifically with regards to driving in the mountains:

Would you agree that we do not “test” ability to drive mountain passes before licensing drivers and allowing them to drive in mountainous areas?  

Yes a driver should be licenced before attempting to drive mountain passes. A driver should have gained some experience in driving on roads before any attempts are made in mountains.

What in your experience are the major causes of crashes in mountain passes?

The main cause is limited forward vision and positioning for the corners and bends that extends forward vision. A driver begins to look at the inside of the bend without lifting the vision to look through the corner. Drivers are frequently caught out by bends that a sharper than initially thought.

How important is driving experience in navigating dangerous mountain passes?

Driving experience is important in driving on any roads but because of the demanding nature of mountain passes – especially so.

What are the major adjustments required to driving technique when having to drive mountain passes?

Selection of a correct gear for ascents or descents is very important as this will control the speed of the vehicle. Drivers often are reluctant to engage the suitable gear before dealing with any hills and are often caught out trying to engage a lower gear in corners or bends. Forward vision and looking through corners is essential as by doing this it gives the driver the complete picture of how to negotiate a bend etc.

What would be the best suggestions to offer drivers not familiar to driving in mountainous areas when:

-           Driving up the mountain Be especially aware of slow moving trucks that are crawling up or down the mountain pass. Their extremely slow speed often catches or road users out and cause problems

-          Driving down the mountain  Also drive down a maintain pass in the same gear as you would drive up the pass. This will control your speed of decent by engine compression and avoid long periods of braking cause the brakes to over heat

Are there special considerations to take into account with regards to vehicle roadworthiness/ readiness when having to drive in mountainous areas?

An exterior and interior check is essential and the vehicle must be roadworthy with a good service record

Any specific advice or caution when towing a trailer or caravan?

A major concern it descending with a trailer or caravan. Engage the correct gear before the decent to control the speed of decent and use the straight roads for braking to avoid braking in a bend

Also view:

Safe Driving in the Mountains/ Mountain Passes

Defensive Driving and Road Safety

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

Driving in France? Regardez bien!

Road accident deaths in France shot up by practically 4% final year, hitting a total of close to 3,400. And the French government is determined to prevent them going up again in 2015.

To that finish, it has introduced a raft of measures created to quit folks placing lives in danger by drink driving and making use of their mobile phones at the wheel – anything you will require to be aware of if you are driving on French roads this year.

As nicely as lowering the legal alcohol limit for young drivers, the new regime bans the use of hands-cost-free kits utilized by drivers to make calls at the wheel and lowers the age at which teenagers can begin driving beneath supervision.

France – a hazardous place to drive

The number of folks who died on French roads in 2014 rose 3.7% year-on-year to a depressingly high 3,388.

Examine that to the 1,713 men and women killed on UK roads in 2013 (the most current year for which statistics are obtainable). France has a slightly larger population (66 million) than the UK (64 million) but it is a bigger landmass with far more roads, so you’d feel the quantity of fatalities would be on a par.

But possibly the most telling statistic is that UK fatalities in 2013 really fell by 2.3%, and the long term trend in the UK is downwards. Apart from 2011, deaths have fallen in quantity every single year since 2004.

So why this evident French malaise.

Drinking dilemma

Possibly it plays to national stereotypes, but it turns out that alcohol-associated accidents came out as the number one particular killer in France.

And as an individual who has spent years living in France, that does not come as a excellent surprise to me. French people have a rather different attitude to us Brits when it comes to drink-driving.

Although getting behind the wheel when you are tipsy right here is quickly becoming a deep social taboo, it is broadly accepted in France – or at least it is in the rural places where I have spent most of my time.

That’s why I welcome efforts to crack down on drink driving. And I reckon the most efficient way to avoid alcohol-related road deaths, at least in rural places, would be to invest in better public transport or find a way of lowering the usually astronomical price of a taxi ride.

How the government is tackling the issue

In February, Bernard Cazeneuve, the French Interior Minister, announced particulars of no fewer than 26 measures made to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities by 2020:

• Zero tolerance on alcohol for young drivers

The legal alcohol limit is being slashed from .5mg/ml to .2mg/ml for young drivers, meaning even one half pint – the ubiquitous French “demi” – will push them more than.

• Breathalysers in late-evening off licences

Shops promoting alcohol amongst 2am and 7am should supply buyers breathalysers or face penalties and prospective closure.

• Earphones and headsets no longer allowed

The use of all types of earphones, headsets and hands-free of charge kits “that limit the focus of drivers” is being banned for these in the driving seat.

• Far more “double-face” speed cameras

Although the number of speed cameras in France – 4,150 – is not set to rise, there will be much more “double-faced” speed cameras that can snare drivers travelling in each directions.

• Tinted windows to be banned

Only tinted windscreens are forbidden at the moment, but Cazeneuve intends to extend this ban to cover all automobile windows in the coming years.

• Much more space about pedestrian crossings

Only mopeds and motorbikes will be allowed to park inside 5 metres of pedestrian crossings.

• Younger drivers on the roads

French teenagers as young as 15 will be capable to drive below supervision below the new guidelines.

To France?

If you are driving to France this year, make confident you verify what’s necessary and expected of you just before you set off.

Pay certain interest to setting your headlights appropriately and carrying the correct equipment in case of an accident. You must also carry an approved breathalyzer.

Full details can be located in this 2-part article.

Driving in France? Regardez bien!

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

On the Arrive Alive website we share information on the need for defensive driving and some rather challenging conditions on our roads. We believe that too few drivers adjust their speed and driving style to the road, traffic and weather conditions. We decided to raise a few questions with safe driving specialist Eugene Herbert specifically with regards to driving in the mountains:

Would you agree that we do not “test” ability to drive mountain passes before licensing drivers and allowing them to drive in mountainous areas?  

Yes a driver should be licenced before attempting to drive mountain passes. A driver should have gained some experience in driving on roads before any attempts are made in mountains.

What in your experience are the major causes of crashes in mountain passes?

The main cause is limited forward vision and positioning for the corners and bends that extends forward vision. A driver begins to look at the inside of the bend without lifting the vision to look through the corner. Drivers are frequently caught out by bends that a sharper than initially thought.

How important is driving experience in navigating dangerous mountain passes?

Driving experience is important in driving on any roads but because of the demanding nature of mountain passes – especially so.

What are the major adjustments required to driving technique when having to drive mountain passes?

Selection of a correct gear for ascents or descents is very important as this will control the speed of the vehicle. Drivers often are reluctant to engage the suitable gear before dealing with any hills and are often caught out trying to engage a lower gear in corners or bends. Forward vision and looking through corners is essential as by doing this it gives the driver the complete picture of how to negotiate a bend etc.

What would be the best suggestions to offer drivers not familiar to driving in mountainous areas when:

-           Driving up the mountain Be especially aware of slow moving trucks that are crawling up or down the mountain pass. Their extremely slow speed often catches or road users out and cause problems

-          Driving down the mountain  Also drive down a maintain pass in the same gear as you would drive up the pass. This will control your speed of decent by engine compression and avoid long periods of braking cause the brakes to over heat

Are there special considerations to take into account with regards to vehicle roadworthiness/ readiness when having to drive in mountainous areas?

An exterior and interior check is essential and the vehicle must be roadworthy with a good service record

Any specific advice or caution when towing a trailer or caravan?

A major concern it descending with a trailer or caravan. Engage the correct gear before the decent to control the speed of decent and use the straight roads for braking to avoid braking in a bend

Also view:

Safe Driving in the Mountains/ Mountain Passes

Defensive Driving and Road Safety

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

13 times dashcams have shown just how poor some people’s driving can be

From the sublime to the ridiculous, right here are 13 of the most hair-raising moments of motoring madness to have ever been caught on camera.

1. Escape by the skin of your teeth

What’s incredible is that the automobile stops and politely waits for the truck to pass. You are as well polite, gents.

2. Usually look prior to you leap. Nicely, they leapt …

That folks carrier might not have been seeking, but at least they have been signalling.

3. Speaking of not looking …

When a person practically crashes into you, a friendly toot of the horn lets them know just how absolutely livid you are at the situation.

4. Holy flying shed, Batman!

Appear after your shed. Otherwise it may possibly make a break for freedom when you are not searching.

5. Rebel without having a trigger

You can inform by the graffiti on the van that these guys had been born to break the guidelines.

6. Nice swerving action, mate!

Fast reactions on this Aussie truck driver, though we will not ask about that stain on their windscreen.

7. Entirely oblivious

For some people, paying due care and focus on the road is filed in the brain below “someone else’s problem”.

8. Thoughts if I cut in?

Some men and women just want that little shot of adrenaline to get them by means of the day.

9. Confused by the idea of roundabouts

“Give way? You have to be mistaken – all this road belongs to me”.

8. Driving on the wrong side

Confucius said: “When the road ahead is blocked, use the other lane. Unless, you know, there’s a vehicle heading right towards you.”

11. Breakdancing hatchback

Often even cars need to cut loose and throw a few shapes.

12. Peek-a-boo!

Someone’s been playing way too a lot GTA.

13. The magic auto

And for my next trick, I shall seem at a junction out of thin air!

Would you like to get your hands on a single of these nifty car gadgets?

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13 times dashcams have shown just how poor some people’s driving can be

What are the regulations as to the time when my lights must be turned on when driving?

Question:

Good morning. Please advise if it is mandatory to drive with your headlights on after 7.00am in Cape Town on a beautiful summer day.

Answer:

The regulation that requires when lamps must be lit is copied below. There is no definition for sunset or sunrise but as far as I know there were some court cases that used the actual sunset or sunrise times as recorded by the weather bureau and GPS systems. Please remember that the requirement for when the lamps must be on applies to insufficient light or unfavourable weather conditions. That is normally left to the discretion of a traffic officer.

Vehicles to be equipped with certain lamps and times when certain lamps to be lighted

Reg 157.    (1)        No person shall operate on a public road a motor vehicle unless—

(a)        all lamps fitted to a motor vehicle as contemplated in regulations 159 to 184 inclusive, are undamaged, properly secured, and capable of being lighted at all times; and

(b)        the head lamps, rear lamps and number plate lamps are kept lighted during the period between sunset and sunrise and at any other time when, due to insufficient light or unfavourable weather conditions, persons and vehicles upon the public road are not clearly discernible at a distance of 150 metres: Provided that the provisions of this paragraph shall not apply to a motor vehicle parked off the roadway of a public road or in a parking place demarcated by appropriate road traffic signs or within a distance of 12 metres from a lighted street lamp illuminating the public road on which such vehicle is parked.

(2)        No person shall operate on a public road a motor cycle, a motor cycle with a side car, a motor tricycle or motor quadrucycle, unless the headlamp of such vehicle is lighted at all times: Provided that the provisions of this subregulation shall not apply to a motor cycle, motor cycle with side car, motor tricycle or motor quadrucycle manufactured before 31 December 1960 which is used only during the period from sunrise to sunset.

(3)        A person operating a motor vehicle on a public road shall extinguish the main‑beam of the light emitted by the head lamp of such vehicle if such main-beam could cause a dangerous glare to oncoming traffic.

;

Alta Swanepoel & Associates

Also view:

Lighting, Head Lamps and Spot Lights on Vehicles and Rules of the Road

Driving Lights-On

What are the regulations as to the time when my lights must be turned on when driving?

Driving to the ski slopes – guidelines for half-term hols

Driving to one of Europe’s ski resorts this season?

The car can be a cost-effective alternative to flying, particularly if you are travelling with children during the frantic February half-term rush.

OK, you might have to buy some in-car entertainment, but at least you won’t have to pay for airline seats, luggage and speedy boarding.

You will, though, have to make sure you have the right motor insurance.

Compliant on the Continent

Insurers are obliged by law to cover your vehicle if you drive within the EU. But they have to provide only the minimum legal level of cover, which is usually third party.

In other words, if your car is stolen, or you damage or even write-off your vehicle in an accident that was your fault, you will not be able to claim on your insurance.

Most insurers offer only minimum European cover as standard. You can usually extend your UK comprehensive policy if you plan to drive in Europe, but in many cases you will have to pay an extra premium.

The cost varies from insurer to insurer and depends on a number of risk factors, such as your age and occupation, the make and model of the car.

Half-terms and conditions

Your policy will usually cover driving in Europe up to a certain number of days, which could be as many as 90 in one policy year.

But always read the small print, especially if you are planning a long trip.

Check, too, that your destination is covered. You are probably safe if you are driving to a ski resort within the EU.

Most insurers also cover a number of non-EU countries, such as Switzerland, but the list varies.

Big-up your breakdown cover

The average cost of a breakdown in Europe is about £600, so you should upgrade your breakdown cover, too.

Most standard breakdown policies don’t cover Europe, but you are more likely to have an accident or a breakdown on unfamiliar roads in cold weather.

Most firms offer various levels of cover so you can pick a policy to suit your budget.

On the level

If you opt for a basic plan, someone will either repair the car at the roadside, or take you and the vehicle to the nearest garage.

A premium package would usually cover the cost of any emergency accommodation, in case you have to wait for the garage to carry out repairs.

It would also include alternative transport if you chose instead to continue your journey, or even return to the UK.

Afore ye go…

Try to sort out your insurance and breakdown cover at least a month before you travel. If you leave it until the last minute, you could come unstuck.

For example, you may not be able to claim on a breakdown policy for a given number of days, so if you buy cover the day before you leave, you could still be at risk.

Can I see your papers?

Always take the right documents with you in the car, including a full driving licence, the original vehicle registration document, your motor insurance certificate and breakdown policy.

A UK driving licence is enough for most European countries. However, you might need an International Driving Permit if you are heading to a ski resort further afield.

Sticky situations

Every UK car must display a GB sticker unless the registration plate includes the GB Euro symbol.

Drivers in many European countries are also expected to carry warning triangles and reflective jackets in the car at all times. And if local traffic drives on the right, your car must have headlamp beam converters.

Kit and caboodle

All drivers in France should keep a breath test kit in the car.

The small disposable kits cost about £2.00, and experts recommend that you take a couple as you must always have one ready for use if you’re stopped.

Remember that the legal limit for alcohol in the blood in many European countries is lower than in England and Wales at 50 mg per 100 ml, compared with 80 mg.

Driving to the ski slopes – guidelines for half-term hols