Life-saving ways to reduce risk on the road

We’re stuck in the sweaty summer months and with it comes extra traffic on the roads. Mainly because this time of year coincides with the Christmas season, which the country has dubbed the “silly season” for more reasons than just the holiday cheer experienced across the country. A key motivation for this strangely positive nickname is the fact that there is typically an increase in incidents on our roads. And not just the fender bender type, because unfortunately, during the December holidays there is a tragic increase in the number of accidents that result in bodily injury and even death.

The fact is that we need to be vigilant during this time and do everything we can to reduce our risk on the road. Fortunately, we can help you with some helpful tips, including a list of the most dangerous roads you may want to avoid.

Have your car inspected

Before hitting the road to your vacation destination, we recommend that you check your car. There could be some minor problems that are easy to fix, but if ignored, they could turn into something life-threatening as you move from point A to point B.

Here’s what you should consider:

• Be sure to check your tires for nails, bulges, cracks, and thinned tread.
• Take a professional look at your brakes.
• Watch your wipers for signs of wear and replace them with a smoother, cleaner windshield if it rains while driving.
• Check all fluids and top up any that are low.
• Anything that doesn’t sound or smell good.

What to do with your furry travel companions

It’s surprising how many tourists want to travel with their furry family members, but we get it. It is difficult to part with our beloved animals. If you hate being separated from your pet, keep in mind that unrestrained animals can create additional distractions for the driver and additional dangers for all passengers. It’s not just that they can jump in the car, but it’s quite tempting to pet, play and feed your adorable pet. Consider using a pet restraint system to limit its ability to distract you.

Buckle up everyone

Yes, everyone in the car must wear a seat belt. Not only adults, but also their children should be in age-appropriate and properly restrained safety seats. Not only is this a legal requirement in South Africa, but children roaming freely can be incredibly distracting and put everyone at risk.

Be careful on dangerous roads

While it’s all very well suggesting that you avoid high-risk routes, if you have no other option, then that’s it. What you can do is plan your trip so that if you do go through any of these dangerous stretches of road, you do so during the day and drive more carefully.

It is worth noting that while many of the accidents recorded on these roads are due to speeding, drink driving or negligent driving, there is a chance that you could be injured as a result of driving near one of these drivers.

South Africa’s deadliest roads:

• The N12 from Springs to Witbank.
• Peak of Chapman Drive.
• The N2, specifically from Durban to Tongaat, from Mthatha to Kokstad and from East London to Mthatha.
• Sani Pass.
• The N4 from Middleburg to Belfast.
• The N1 from Polokwane to Makhado and from Makhado to Polokwane.
• Slaaihoek Pass.

Make sure you have access to help.

Accidents tend to be unexpected in nature, which is just one of the reasons why car insurance is so necessary. With the right policy, you should even have access to a roadside assistance service. These services usually send help if you have suffered mechanical or electrical breakdowns, flat tyres, a fuel delivery if you have run out of battery, and even accommodation for the night if you have broken down more than 100 kilometers from home.

Some insurers, like this one, don’t just provide roadside assistance. You also get access to other emergency assistance services with your comprehensive auto insurance policy, including medical assistance to help with things like emergency ambulance transportation. A benefit like this could very well save your life.

Are you interested in getting insurance that really has your back and your car? Then WhatsApp (or call) 0860 50 50 50 to find out more or get a no-obligation quote. You can even click here to start shooting online.

Psst… This blog provides general information only and does not count as financial or product advice from King Price or our legal and compliance experts. Remember, all our premiums depend on risk profile and T&Cs apply. Our most up-to-date KPPD (policy drafting) can always be found here.

The T&Cs of our website can be found here.

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Life-saving ways to reduce risk on the road

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We’re stuck in the sweaty summer months and with it comes extra traffic on the roads. Mainly because this time of year coincides with the Christmas season, which the country has dubbed the “silly season” for more reasons than just the holiday cheer experienced across the country.

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The king

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king price insurance

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