Driving Etiquette 101: Holiday Travel and Manners on the Road

Are you as ready for the upcoming June school holidays as we are? Sure, the roads will be packed and the actual travelling part might be a schlep, but it'll all be worth it once you arrive at your vacation destination. That said, let's not forget about something super important yet often ignored... Driving etiquette. It's not just about being polite during your holiday travel, it's about keeping everyone on the road safe and happy.

Before you zoom off on your next family adventure, pop into DEKRA for a Roadworthy Vehicle Inspection. It's like giving your car a quick health check-up to make sure it's also ready for the trip ahead.

The Basics of Driving Etiquette

Stay Sharp

Keep your eyes on the road and your mind focused. It's like being a superhero with a radar for everything happening around you. Remember, the unexpected often happens in the blink of an eye. A ball rolling into the street or a sudden brake from the car ahead can occur without warning. Staying alert could mean the difference between a safe trip and a close call, especially during holiday travel.

Use Those Indicators

Your indicators are like your car's way of saying, "Heads up, I'm moving over here". Use them early, not last minute. Nobody appreciates guessing games while on the road. It's not just polite, it's like giving others a roadmap of your intentions. This simple act can prevent confusion and accidents, making the road smoother for everyone.

Be the Nice Driver

Let's bring chivalry back to the streets. See someone trying to merge? Wave them in with a smile. It's like making a new friend at 60km/h. This small gesture can ease someone's stress and might just make their day. Plus, you never know when you'll be on the receiving end of such kindness! Paying it forward on the road is the way to go.

Give Some Breathing Room

Tailgating is unpleasant and creates unnecessary stress for the driver in front of you. Please be considerate and keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead. You can do so by imagining there's an invisible car between you. It's all about giving space, not invading it. This isn't just about being courteous, it's also about safety. More space means more time to react if something unexpected happens.

Emergency Vehicles Get VIP Treatment

Did you know that during the first three weeks of the 2023/24 festive season, there were 719 recorded fatalities on our roads? When you hear sirens or see flashing lights, move over and let them through. They're on a mission, and we should do what we can to help. Think of it as clearing the stage for the real-life heroes rushing to save lives. This is more than just a driving etiquette suggestion, it's a must for all road users.

Speed Limits and Lane Discipline

Speed limits aren't just suggestions, they're carefully calculated for your safety and those who use the roads with you. Respecting them is like following the basic rules of a game. It keeps things fair and fun for everyone. When it comes to lane discipline, stick to the left lane unless you're overtaking. Zigzagging or hogging the fast lane is a major road etiquette no-no. It's all about flow, which means keeping it steady, predictable, and respectful.

Acknowledge Good Behaviour

Just like saying "thanks" when someone holds a door for you, a quick thank you wave or a brief flash of your hazard lights go a long way. It's like giving a virtual high-five for good road manners for all parties involved. When someone lets you merge or gives way, that little wave is a warm way to acknowledge their kindness. It's about creating a chain reaction of positivity on the road. This simple act not only feels good but also encourages others to keep the good vibes rolling. So, next time you're on the receiving end of a kind road gesture, give a wave or flash those hazards - it's the little things that help us all drive with a smile.

Safety First

While driving etiquette will go a long way in making your journey a pleasant one, we want to remind everybody that safety comes first when travelling. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you head to your holiday destination.

DEKRA Roadworthy Vehicle Inspection

Before you hit the road, a pit stop at DEKRA for a Roadworthy Vehicle Inspection is a must. Think of it as a health check for your car. This isn't just about ticking a box on your list of things to get done, it's about ensuring your vehicle is in tip-top shape for the journey. Brakes, lights, tyres, everything needs to be in perfect working order before you head out.

Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions

The road and your passengers deserve your undivided attention. Distracted driving, especially due to mobile phone use, is like walking a tightrope without looking at your feet. It's risky, and it's not worth the gamble. Text messages, calls, or the snack bag on the back seat can wait. The road demands your full attention. Give it the respect it deserves.

Dealing with Fatigue

Long drives can be draining. It can lead to your reaction time slowing down and can compromise your ability to make swift decisions. If you have a long road ahead, plan for regular breaks to stretch, grab a coffee, or just breathe in some fresh air. Think of these pauses as refresh buttons. They keep you alert, awake, and ready to tackle the kilometres ahead with renewed energy.

Here are some articles that might help with your school holiday planning.

- 9 Things To Keep In Mind As You Prepare For Your Next Long-Distance Trip

- Plan the Ultimate Scenic December Holiday: 5 Route Suggestions

- Holiday Road Safety Tips

- Ensure Child Safety in a Car for the Upcoming Holidays

- Understanding Road Rage and Aggressive Driving

- Frequently asked questions about potholes in South Africa

Photo credit: Wendy Wei on Pexels

Holiday travel brings its own set of challenges, but with a little driving etiquette, kindness, and mindfulness on the road, we can turn potential chaos into harmonious travels. Remember, your actions behind the wheel don't affect just you, they ripple out to impact everyone sharing the road with you. So, before you set off on your winter getaway, a final but crucial reminder: get a DEKRA Roadworthy Vehicle Inspection. Ensuring your car is in top condition is not just a step towards a stress-free journey, it's a commitment to safety for you, your passengers, and fellow road users. Let's pledge to keep our roads safe and our driving courteous.