Extend Your Vision:
One of the most important things you can do while driving is look well ahead so you can pick up potentially dangerous situations before it's too late. Instead of looking only as far as the vehicle in front of you when driving, scan the road in front to a distance of a least 12 seconds ahead of your vehicle, that is, the place where you will be driving after 12 seconds.
Keep Your Eyes Moving:
Instead of only looking ahead while you are driving, make sure you use your mirrors and look to the sides and behind your vehicle. Doing so well help keep you alert on long journeys.
Create A Safety Cushion:
You should create a safety 'cushion' around your vehicle by making sure that there is a safe distance in all directions between you, other vehicles and potential hazards.
- Create a cushion of safety ahead of you by maintaining a safe following distance. Use the two second or four second rule where appropriate.
- Create a cushion of safety behind you by maintaining a safe distance between you and any following vehicles. If a vehicle is following you too closely, slow down, move over and let it pass as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Create a safety cushion to your sides by keeping a safe distance from any hazards on your sides such as driveways,parked vehicles, cyclists or children playing on the footpath.
It's easy to get distracted while driving. Things like music,talking passengers,passing scenery and roadside advertising can all distract you from the road. If you do need to look away from the road remember these pointers.
- Check well ahead for any potential hazards, if you see hazards keep your eyes on the road.
- Never take your eyes off the road longer than absolutely necessary. If you take your eyes off the road for two seconds while travelling at 90km/h you will travel 50m.