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Here’s to Driving Safe Ladies!

 

In 2018, females accounted for 50.78% of Trinidad & Tobago’s population according to The World Bank’s data. That’s hardly a niche! It’s thought that women statistically tend to be the safe drivers. But not every situation on the roadway is the same.  There are multiple things that can happen to put you in danger, and we’re more distracted than ever.  It’s important to know some tips on being prepared and staying safe, no matter the scenario.

 

Some Top Driving Tips:

  1. Take Care of Your Car 

  

  • Ensure that you do your regular vehicle maintenance.
  • If you have trouble keeping track it’s handy to keep a notepad to keep note of when you get your vehicle serviced or tires changed.
  • A more convenient option can be making note of your maintenance on your mobile phone. However you keep track, keeping your vehicle in good working condition means you reduce the risk of your car breaking down and rendering you vulnerable on the roadway or worse, causing an accident.

 

  1. Practice Safety

When you get behind the wheel, ensure that you pay attention to the different factors that can affect your driving.

  • Driving with high heels. While they may be cute, and be perfectly appropriate for the event you’re heading to, high heels may be dangerous for you to drive in.
  • Ensure that you prepare ahead with a pair of flat shoes which allow you to maneuver the pedals safely while driving.
  • Driving while impaired. Driving while tired, intoxicated, or even on certain medications inhibits your ability to focus and increases your risk of losing control of your vehicle. Consider calling a friend or taxi service to get you to and from your destination safely.

 

  1. Focus on Driving

  • Don’t use your mobile when driving. Distraction on the roadway doesn’t only come from cell phones, but the habit of frequently using your cell phone can impact your focus on the road.
  • Do not multi-task, doing things such as eating, applying makeup, and even changing the radio station can cause you to get into an accident. It only takes a second to make a mistake, keep your eyes ahead, hands on the wheel, and focus on the road.

 

  1. Plan ahead.

They say women are the better planners.  While it may or may not be true, we encourage you to take the time to plan ahead before leaving for your destination.  There are a few key things you should know beforehand;

  • Know the route…and an alternative. Avoid getting lost by knowing where you’re going and how you’re going to get there safely.
  • Ensure that you’re aware of parking accommodations at your destination. If you are alone when leaving your destination, request to be escorted by the security at the destination or wait for a group of your peers before leaving.
  • Know your timing, share your timing. In the event that something has happened there will be someone who is aware of your whereabouts and would be suspicious if you do not arrive at the planned time.

 

  1. Be observant.

  • Be aware of your surroundings. Keep your eyes open and stay alert for drivers who may not be as cautious.  Poor overtaking, sudden braking, even breaking red lights, there are many dangers which may pose a threat to your safety.
  • Pay attention to others around you. For example, noticing a strange car behind you staying consistent with your speed and your route.  Take a different route or an unexpected turn which can calm your suspicions. If the vehicle continues behind you, it is advised to not drive to your home, but instead drive to a well populated area or directly to the nearest police station.

 

  1. What to do if an accident occurs

Knowing what to do in the event of an accident is important for your safety and for timely processing of your insurance claim.

 Stay keen. Be aware of what is happening around you that may pose an additional risk.  If your vehicle is immobilized in the path of oncoming traffic, once possible, carefully make your way to safety instead of remaining in the vehicle.

  • Document information of persons involved. Obtain relevant information from the other driver.  This includes drivers permit number, insurance company and policy number, address and/or contact number, and the names of any other person/persons in the vehicle at the time of the incident.
  • Pay attention to details. Get key details such as the name of the street, landmarks to identify your vehicles position, take photos of the damage to your vehicle as well as the other vehicle.  All these details will serve to assist you in filing your claim.

 

There are so many things you can do to be safe on the roadway.  Take note of these tips and practice them each time you prepare to get behind the wheel.