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Navigating the bustling roads of our Country can be a challenge for new drivers, but safety can be significantly improved with the right tips. Find essential driving tips from seasoned drivers, focusing on practical advice that empowers newbies to build confidence, enhance their skills, and ensure a safer driving experience on Zimbabwe’s diverse roads. As a new driver in Zimbabwe, navigating the streets can be daunting. With heavy traffic, unpredictable weather conditions, and a mix of vehicles on the road, developing safe driving habits is crucial. Here are some tips from seasoned drivers to help newbies stay safe and confident behind the wheel.
Adjust Your Mirrors And Seat
Before setting off, adjust your seat followed by the mirrors. For your seat, adjust the height until your hands on the steering wheel align with your chest to get optimum front vision. Your arms should be slightly bent when holding the steering wheel, and you should be able to reach the pedals comfortably without stretching. Do not sit too close to the steering wheel as in the case of collision, the airbag will deploy and you may suffer injuries as you will receive the full impact of the airbags.
For the side mirror farthest from the driver, adjust its vertical angle so that the sky and ground are half of the mirror and the horizontal angle so that your vehicle’s side occupies one-quarter of the mirror. As for the side mirror closest to the driver, adjust the vertical view to one-quarter sky and ground three-quarters. For the in-car rearview mirror, adjust it to be parallel with the rear windshield, so you have a 1:1 ratio of sky to ground. Adjust these mirrors as you are seated in your comfortable driving position, and not leaning toward them.
Keep Your Distance
Maintaining a safe following distance – the two-second rule from the vehicle in front – is crucial, especially in heavy rain when road spray can significantly reduce visibility. When driving behind a heavy vehicle, stay further back to minimise the spray hitting your windscreen. Remember, the more distance you have, the more reaction time and stopping distance you’ll have if needed. Should you find your vehicle tailgating the front one, slow down and create more space between your vehicle and the front one, and always remember the two-second rule.
Avoid distractions
Smartphones and other distractions can wait until you reach your destination. Never use your phone while driving as it’s illegal and puts you and others at risk. If you need to use your phone, park your vehicle in a safe place like carparks. Avoid eating, drinking, or grooming while driving as well, as your hand(s) will be off the steering wheel and not concentrating on driving. In short, you should concentrate on driving with no other distractions.
Obey Traffic Rules
Always obey traffic rules and regulations, even if the situation looks clear. Stop signs and traffic lights are there for a reason, so always come to a complete stop and check for oncoming vehicles before proceeding. Speeding is never worth the risk, as it can lead to accidents.
Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
Stay alert and keep an eye out for other vehicles and pedestrians, especially motorcycles and bicycles that can suddenly emerge from in-between heavy vehicles, and pedestrians who suddenly dash out. Seeing brake lights illuminate could indicate that a smaller vehicle has cut in front of a larger one. Scan your mirrors frequently and do a head check by turning physically before changing lanes to ensure your blind spots on the left and right of the vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors are clear.
Handle Jams With Patience
Traffic jams are an inevitable part of driving in Singapore. When stuck in traffic, resist the urge to change lanes frequently, as this can increase the likelihood of accidents. If you change lanes, the overtaken vehicle brakes, causing the vehicles behind it to brake too, making it more dangerous. These motorists may also not notice in time when you switch lanes. Motorcyclists often travel between lanes to get ahead, so staying put in your lane is the safest option. These motorcyclists may be blocked by other vehicles and you do not see them in time or they may not stop in time when you are in the middle of the lanes, making it dangerous.
Maintain Your Vehicle
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your car in good running shape. Stick to the scheduled intervals and keep an eye out for any issues like oil leaks that make driving more dangerous. If your vehicle is not well-maintained, be prepared for unexpected breakdowns by knowing where your breakdown triangle, jack, and Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance numbers are located.
Stay Sober
Never drink and drive, even if it’s a short journey or if you only had a few drinks, as your judgement is impaired and your reaction slower than usual. The consequences of driving under the influence can be severe, both legally and in terms of safety. If you plan to consume alcohol, arrange for alternative transportation, a designated driver, or book an in-drive service.
Mindful Driving
By following these tips and developing safe driving habits, new drivers in Zimbabwe can navigate the roads with extra caution and minimise the risk of accidents. Remember, driving is a skill that takes time and practice to master, so don’t be afraid to ask for guidance from experienced drivers or you’re driving instructor if needed.
Preparing for a breakdown However much you prepare, there’s always a chance that your car might leave you stranded. So it’s important to have a Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance membership and be fully prepared for a breakdown: With so many different policies on the market, knowing which best suits your needs can be difficult. Of course, nobody can make this decision for you, but there are several factors you should consider when choosing a breakdown membership. Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance provides a unique, comprehensive and competitively-priced emergency roadside assistance, towing and recovery service with seven levels of membership packages to suit all your needs and pockets. Call us or WhatsApp at 0780 579 261/0718 084 297 / 0736 523 424 Office+2638677160725 Email:info@drivezim.co.zw. https://www.facebook.com/105600827733427