.JPG)
Discover 10 simple driving habits to stay safe on South Africa’s roads. From buckling up to weather awareness, here’s how to prevent accidents.
Introduction
Road safety is a serious concern in South Africa. Every year, thousands of accidents occur that could be prevented by adopting safer driving habits. You don’t need advanced skills or expensive technology to make a difference — just small, consistent actions that help protect you, your passengers, and others on the road.
Here are 10 simple driving habits that every South African driver should practice daily.
1. Buckle Up First
Seatbelts remain the most effective safety feature in any car. Always fasten yours, even on short trips, and make sure children are secured in the correct car seats or booster seats as required by law. South African law stipulates that children under the age of 3 are not allowed to travel in a vehicle unless strapped into a suitable car seat.
Why it matters:
Wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of fatal injury in the event of an accident.
2. Follow Speed Limits (and Know Where They Change)
In South Africa, speed limits are:
• 60 km/h in built-up areas
• 100 km/h on secondary roads
• 120 km/h on highways
Respecting these limits helps reduce the severity of accidents and keeps traffic flowing more safely. Be mindful of areas where limits change suddenly, such as near schools or construction zones.
Pro Tip:
Use your car’s cruise control on highways to maintain a steady speed and avoid unintentional speeding.
3. Stay Off Your Phone
Using a phone while driving is a major cause of distraction. Even looking down for a few seconds means you may miss sudden changes in traffic. Keep your phone out of reach or use hands-free devices responsibly.
4. Keep a Safe Following Distance
South African roads can be unpredictable, with sudden stops caused by taxis, pedestrians, or livestock on rural roads. Apply the 3-second rule in normal conditions and increase the distance in rain or at night.
How to measure the 3-second rule:
Pick a fixed object on the road ahead. When the car in front passes it, count “one thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three.” If you reach the object before finishing the count, you’re too close.
5. Use Indicators Early (Especially in Heavy Traffic)
In busy cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, traffic is often congested. Using indicators early allows other drivers to anticipate your next move, reducing the risk of collisions and frustration on the road.
Quick Tip:
Make it a habit to check your indicators regularly to ensure they’re functioning properly.
6. Check Blind Spots
Blind spots are a common cause of accidents, especially with motorbikes, cyclists, and minibus taxis weaving through traffic. Always glance over your shoulder before changing lanes, merging, or overtaking.
Extra Safety Tip:
Adjust your mirrors properly to minimise blind spots. Consider adding blind-spot mirrors for extra visibility.
7. Rest When Tired
Fatigue is a real risk, especially on long trips between provinces. Plan to rest every two hours and, if possible, share the driving. Rather stop at a petrol station or rest area than risk pushing through when tired.
Signs of fatigue to watch for:
• Difficulty focusing or frequent blinking
• Drifting between lanes
• Missing road signs or exits
8. Adjust for Weather and Road Conditions
South Africa’s diverse climate means drivers face many challenges:
• Summer rainstorms: Roads can become slippery or flooded.
• Winter mornings: Fog and frost can reduce visibility and grip.
• Rural roads: Expect potholes, animals, and pedestrians close to the roadside.
Slowing down and adapting your driving style to the conditions is one of the best ways to stay safe.
Pro Tip:
Keep an emergency kit in your car with essentials like a flashlight, reflective triangle, and first-aid supplies for unexpected situations.
9. Maintain Your Vehicle (Don’t Skip Roadworthiness)
A safe driver needs a safe car. Regularly check tyres (including the spare), brakes, and lights. Tyre blowouts and poor brakes are preventable risks. Make sure your car is roadworthy, especially before long journeys.
Checklist for regular maintenance:
• Tyre tread depth (minimum 1.6mm)
Tread depth below 1.6mm may comprise your safety, in terms of South African law, the minimum threshold is 1mm.
• Brake pads and fluid levels
• Headlights, indicators, and brake lights
10. Stay Calm Behind the Wheel
Road rage is common on South African roads. Getting angry only increases your chances of making a dangerous decision. Choose patience over confrontation. Let faster cars pass, and focus on arriving safely at your destination.
How to stay calm:
• Listen to calming music or podcasts.
• Practice deep breathing if you feel stressed.
• Remind yourself that safety is more important than “winning” on the road.
Extra Tip: Share the Road Responsibly
South Africa’s roads are used by a wide mix of vehicles and pedestrians. Respect taxi stops, pedestrian crossings, and cyclists’ space. Sharing the road responsibly creates safer conditions for everyone.
Remember:
A little courtesy goes a long way in preventing accidents and fostering a safer driving culture.
Conclusion
Safe driving in South Africa is about daily discipline. By buckling up, keeping a safe distance, and staying calm behind the wheel, you play a role in reducing risks for yourself and others. Remember: road safety starts with you.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal or professional advice. Road conditions and traffic laws may change. Always follow the official rules of the road and drive responsibly.
