When you’ve been driving for many years you feel confident that you have mastered all the rules of the road, and driving becomes second nature. But, while you may think you’re a great driver, are you guilty of breaking these rules?
1. Using your hooter
When you drive on South African roads you constantly hear the beeping of hooters, however most of these people are doing so illegally. You should only use your hooter on a public road when directed to do so or for safety reasons.
2. Traffic circles
The rule at a traffic circle is that you give way to vehicles coming from your right, and you can only go when there’s a break in traffic. You also need to use your indicator to show other drivers where you intend going. The confusion is that mini-circles are treated as a four-way stop, so right of way goes to the vehicle that crosses the yield line first.
3. Pedestrian crossing
In South Africa, the number of pedestrian fatalities is incredibly high and it’s up to both pedestrians and drivers to be more vigilant. When you approach a pedestrian crossing, it’s your responsibility to slow down and stop if needs be, so the pedestrian can cross the road. No other vehicle can pass you if you have stopped to let a pedestrian cross the road.
4. Traffic lights
When you see a traffic light turning amber do you speed up to get through the intersection before it turns red? If your answer is yes, then you’re in the wrong. What you should do when the light turns from green to amber, is slow down, so that you can perform a safe stop at the intersection.
5. Temporary speed limits
When you see temporary road signs and speed limits (such as areas where road works are underway) these aren’t simply recommendations that can be ignored. These signs are legal and take the place of the permanent laws and so they must be obeyed.
It’s up to all drivers to know and abide by the rules of the road, so that you don’t put yourself, your passengers and other road users at risk. Lead by example and always be alert in case other road users are not.
To ensure that you and your vehicle are protected when you’re on the road, speak to Indwe about your insurance options. Call an advisor today on 0860 13 13 14 and get cover for your unique needs.