Start the year with simple reminders for safer driving

The basics you are taught as a new driver will always be important - no matter how long you've had your driving licence. That's because every rule is there to protect your safety and the safety of others.

No matter how many years you've spent behind the wheel, the core principles of road safety remain the same. However, as we become more experienced on the road, we can get a little lax. Like yielding at a stop sign, driving too fast or going into 'auto-pilot' mode and losing concentration. Here's how to change those 'small' bad habits for better road safety.

Safety starts before you turn the ignition

The start of your driver's licence test began with walking around your car and doing a safety inspection. Many of us have long stopped doing this, but it's a quick check that could save a life. So, before opening the car door, do a quick scan underneath the vehicle to make sure it's animal- and child-free (you never know!) Also have a glance at your tyres and wheels - a puncture or loose nut spotted before setting off is far better than when you're on the road.

Once you're in the driver's seat, take a few seconds to check that your mirrors and seat are still in the correct positions. Also check there's nothing under your seat that may obstruct your feet. Pop the seat belt on (don't do this just after you've driven off!) and make sure any passengers have theirs on too. Remember to secure your phone safely in its holder.

Now you can hit the ignition - but before driving off, glance at your car's dashboard lights. Enough fuel? No engine or seat-belt lights flashing? You're good to go.

Respecting the rules of the road

In South Africa, road rules such as speed limits, stop signs, traffic lights, and safe following distances can sometimes be treated treated as suggestions by road users. However, these rules are in place to protect everyone on the road. Choosing to follow them not only keeps you within the law, but also helps reduce the risk of accidents and keeps you and others safe.

Maintaining a steady, legal pace means you reduce the need for harsh braking and cornering - and you are less likely to have an accident. Discovery Insure clients who are Vitality Drive members are rewarded for doing just that, as well as not using their phones while driving and avoiding nighttime driving (when one's accident risk is highest).

Making yourself seen and giving yourself space

Remember another basic: using your indicators. This means indicating every time you intend to turn or change lanes, giving those around you fair warning. The same applies to traffic circles. Remember to indicate when entering and exiting a circle - and that traffic coming from your right has right of way.

Visibility is another basic. Don't wait for total darkness to turn on your lights. Switch them on at sunset, or whenever rain and mist reduce visibility.

Equally important is the space you keep between yourself and the car in front of you (following distance), as this helps you create a safety buffer. This extra time is often the difference between a close call and a bumper-bash - or worse if you're on the highway.

Distraction-free driving

Distractions like cellphones, kids in the car, and eating or drinking while driving take your eyes off the road - and it only takes seconds to get into an unsafe situation. In fact, Discovery Insure's research shows that just a single instance of mobile phone usage results in about 52 seconds of distracted driving.

If you're feeling hungry or need to check a message, rather pull over (with your hazards on and somewhere safe, of course). Or better yet, wait until you get to your destination. Also make sure that little passengers are strapped in and entertained to minimise distractions on the road.

As you set intentions for the year ahead, make safe driving one of them. The basics you learned when you first got your licence are still some of the most powerful tools to protect yourself, your passengers and everyone else sharing the journey.