1. Observation and Awareness

Being alert while driving is essential for road safety. It helps you anticipate potential hazards and react appropriately.

1. Key Aspects to Observe
   1. Other road users – including cars, motorcycles, cyclists, and pedestrians.
   2. Traffic signs and road markings – these provide important guidance.
   3. Weather conditions – rain, fog, or ice can affect visibility and road grip.
   4. Road layout and area – urban, rural, or motorway settings require different driving approaches.
2. Blind Spots
   1. These are areas not visible in your mirrors due to vehicle structure.
   2. Always check blind spots before changing lanes or overtaking.
3. Getting a Clear View
   1. If reversing and visibility is poor, ask someone to guide you.
   2. When emerging from a junction obstructed by parked cars, move forward slowly and carefully until you can see.

2. Overtaking Safely

Overtaking requires careful judgment and proper observation. Before overtaking:

1. Check that it’s safe, legal, and necessary.
2. Look out for oncoming vehicles and possible road hazards like bends, dips, or narrowing roads.
3. Avoid overtaking near junctions, pedestrian crossings, or where road signs prohibit it.

3. Being Seen by Others

1. If you’re following a large vehicle and can’t see its mirrors, the driver may not see you.
2. Switch on your lights when it starts getting dark, even if streetlights aren’t on.
3. Use your horn when approaching a blind spot, like a hump bridge, to alert others.
4. Stay well back from large vehicles to improve your visibility and reaction time.

4. Anticipation and Reaction

Being aware of and anticipating other road users’ actions can help prevent accidents.

1. Look for road signs and markings to anticipate upcoming hazards.
2. When approaching a junction, anticipate possible give way scenarios.
3. Before turning onto a dual carriageway, ensure the central reservation is wide enough for your vehicle to wait safely.
4. In poor conditions (wet roads, fog, heavy traffic), be extra vigilant.

5. Staying Focused on Driving

1. Plan your journey to minimize stress and ensure you know your route.
2. Take regular breaks during long journeys to avoid fatigue.
3. Avoid tiredness:
   1. Don’t drive for more than two hours continuously.
   2. Keep fresh air circulating in the car.
   3. If feeling drowsy, stop at a service area or leave the motorway safely to rest.

6. Distractions While Driving

1. Using mobile phones while driving is illegal and dangerous.
2. Even hands-free calls can reduce concentration.
3. Avoid distractions like loud music, engaging in deep conversations, or looking at roadside incidents.
4. Objects hanging from your mirror can block your view and be hazardous.

7. Emergency Stopping

1. Always be prepared to stop suddenly if needed.
2. Keep both hands on the wheel while braking to maintain control.
3. If your car has ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), it will activate automatically to prevent skidding and allow steering control.