Everyday Driving Tips

As we drive everyday going about our business we rarely take some deep thought about the events that will take place on the road and become so used to driving that we just follow the road signs and adhere to the traffic lights. It’s like driving becomes a lifestyle and we perform it autonomously. There are everyday tips that one can incorporate into their driving routine that may save you time or money or help you avoid certain mishaps that can ruin your day. We have shared a few pointers below for your consideration:

Before driving off

Just go around the vehicle to check if it’s clear of obstructions such as a child’s bike or the child itself. This will help you prevent bumping into something and causing damage. Also check if the tire pressure is okay for the journey and make sure you have a spare wheel packed in along with the car toolbox that contains a fire extinguisher. There is nothing boring as missing an important occasion because of a flat. Once you are satisfied that the external surroundings of the car are clear, proceed inside. Check if the handbrake is on and the gear lever is placed in neutral position before placing the key into ignition. Once checks are complete start the car engine and perform two revs and then leave the car idling to warm up the engine. Warming up the engine before you drive off helps with the proper consumption of fuel and ensuring that the engine is up for the journey. You may also need to check the car lights if they are all working.

  As the car is idling check the dashboard for any (yellow) warning or (red) indicators that may need attention on the car. Usually when the car needs an oil change or water top up in the radiator or battery is low on power and not charging, the dashboard or onboard computer will show you. Make sure the car is in good working condition and the dashboard is clear of any warnings as not filling up the radiator or topping up the oil may lead to the car engine overheating and eventually knocking. When all is clear pull down the handbrake and engage the gear lever into a low gear and test the brakes as you drive off. If the brakes are not working or the engine keeps cutting off it’s probably a good idea to cancel the journey   and have the car sent to the mechanics so that it can be fixed by a specialist.

During the journey

As you are driving towards your destination and you are confident that your car is fine, it is important you keep an eye on the road and occasionally look at the dashboard at stops such as at an intersection or a traffic light. Check for any warning or  red indicators on the car dashboard and make the nearest stop at the fuel pump station if you are running out of gas or need a quick oil change or the tire pressure needs to be readjusted. Usually when driving , how the vehicle handles  is also a good indicator. For example, if you feel the vehicle steering wheel suddenly feeling a bit heavy than usual then you are about to experience a flat tire and it is advisable to reduce speed and stop at a legally acceptable parking point. Whilst on the road it is important that you remain alert always. Set your mindset on defensive driving as you may on the right side and still get hit by another driver not observing the proper road etiquette.

If ever at any point you start to feel drowsy or unable to focus on the road and you are alone then find a legal parking spot and rest for a while till you feel you can continue with the journey. In the event that you are travelling with someone and they can also drive you can ask them to take the wheel. When travelling at night and at some point you decide to stop in the middle of the nowhere surrounded by forestry, avoid the temptation to go out of the vehicle for you could be attacked by nocturnal wild animals. It’s also important at night to dim your lights, to avoid torching other drivers and blinding them on. If your car does not have a Bluetooth hands-free phone system avoid  driving and talking calls as this may distract you from the road or at least stop the vehicle at a good parking spot and pick up the call.

On destination arrival

On arrival to your destination park your car in an obstruction free area to prevent objects like trees smashing onto your roof. Check your dashboard for fuel levels and other indicators before switching of the car engine. This will help you estimate if you can make the following trip with no refills. Also remember to pull the handbrake up, disengage from drive into park or neutral and locking all doors as you go out of the car.