The State Association of Accident Victims DIA presents a series of tips and recommendations on road safety to prevent possible accidents this summer, emphasizing the importance of prevention to avoid traffic accidents.
With the arrival of summer, the number of journeys on the road increases. Avis and DIA, in their commitment to prevention policies in terms of road safety. Now present a series of tips to prevent possible accidents and enjoy an unbeatable summer.
Plan Your Trip Before You Leave
Before starting the trip it is advisable to consult routes, alternatives, congestion, and weather conditions. Avoiding unforeseen events and knowing the route will make us much safer.
Check The Car Before Starting The Trip
It is important to have good maintenance and check that everything is ready to go: steering, lights, brakes, suspension, tires, oil levels, windshield wipers, coolant, and brakes. In the case of rental cars, the AVIS company makes sure that everything is ready and ready for use, carrying out an intense task of checking the vehicles so that the client does not have to worry about car maintenance and can undertake the trip in a calm and safe way.
Make Sure You Have Everything You Need In Order
Valid driving license, insurance receipt (it is not necessary to bring the receipt, although it is advisable), vehicle registration certificate or provisional authorization issued by the Traffic Headquarters, technical characteristics card of the vehicle, and, finally, a favorable report from the Vehicle Technical Inspection (ITV). Although it is not mandatory either, it is advisable to also bring the receipt for the payment of the municipal circulation tax.
Rest Every Two Hours
Fatigue and sleepiness while driving are causes of accidents. On long journeys, it is important to be well hydrated, so it is advisable to always carry water for the trip.
The Established Speed Must Be Respected
Adapted to the circumstances of the road as well as the weather conditions. 22% of fatalities in 2013 were related to driving at an inappropriate speed. According to data provided by the State Association of Accident Victims DIA. We must also respect the road safety distance. This way we will have time to act and stop before possible unforeseen events.
Do Not Consume Alcohol Or Drugs And Do Not Take Drugs That Affect Driving
If the consumption of drugs and alcohol by drivers were eliminated, 1,000 lives could be saved each year, says DIA. Increased reaction time, coordination problems, misperception of speed, and vision problems are just some of the effects of alcohol on driving.
Safety Belt
All occupants must use a seat belt and especially minors who must be properly secured in their child restraint systems.
According to data provided by AVIS and the State Association of Accident Victims DIA. No less than 171 occupants of passenger cars and vans died in 2013 due to a traffic accident due to not wearing a seat belt. The correct use of the seat belt reduces the risk of death in the event of an accident by half. Not using it means committing a serious infraction, which entails a fine of 200 euros for any of the occupants of the vehicle and the withdrawal of three points from the driving license if it is the driver.
Among the smallest, four child occupants of cars and vans died of not having the corresponding child seat. Children under 12 years old can never ride in the front seat. They must always go in the rear seats and with the retention device adapted to their size and weight if they measure less than 1.35 m. In case of having a height equal to or greater than 1.35m and being under 12 years of age, they may use an approved retention device or the seat belt indistinctly. The person responsible will always be the driver.
Avoid Distractions
They are the cause of four out of ten accidents with fatalities, declares DIA. The use of a mobile phone while driving multiplies by four the risk of having an accident. There are many other daily acts that drivers carry out while driving that also cause driving distraction: lighting a cigarette, manipulating the radio, or navigation devices… Taking your eyes off the road, even for seconds, can be decisive. These situations can result in not seeing a crossing pedestrian or not seeing the vehicle at the front stop.
Be Responsible Also In Your Destination
It is very important to be cautious during the trip but also at the destination itself. If it is necessary to take the car to get around, even if it is a five-minute drive (to go down to the beach or to go to the beach bar), it is necessary to always use the belt and the child restraint system. You should not drive with pigs as it limits the proper mobility of the feet and will prevent braking or accelerating easily.
Be Cautious
In summer, the number of motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians who go for a walk increases. It is advisable to slow down in the city, residential areas, parks, and promenades… and maintain a minimum lateral separation of 1.5 meters between car and bike when overtaking. They are vulnerable users and in the event of an accident, they will be the most affected.
According to a WHO report, from 80km/h it is practically impossible for a pedestrian to be saved in a hit-and-run. At a speed of 30 km/h, the risk of pedestrian death is reduced to 10%.
You may like to read Four Keys To Safety In Public Transport
