4 May 2012 - By Eugene Herbert - The RAC Group

Hi Folks…
 
On your everyday drive how often have you observed the driver alongside “staring blankly ahead of themselves” paying little attention to what is happening around them in the traffic? Now the bad part – are you guilty of doing the same? Be honest, even if only with yourself.

To be a good driver, you must know what is happening around your vehicle. You must look ahead, to the sides and behind your vehicle. This driving technique is called scanning. Scanning helps you to see problems ahead -- vehicles and people  ( think pedestrians  one the pavement of verge ) that may be in the road by the time you reach them, signs warning you of problems ahead, and signs giving you directions.

To avoid last-minute braking or turning, look well down the road. By looking well ahead and being ready to stop or change lanes if needed, you can drive more safely, save on fuel, help keep traffic moving at a steady pace, and allow yourself time to better see around your vehicle and along the road. Looking well down the road will also help you to steer straight, with less weaving. Safer drivers tend to look at least 12 seconds ahead of their vehicles.

In the suburbs 12 seconds is probably about one block. When you drive in city traffic however, you should endeavour to look at least one block further ahead. On the motorway, depending on speed of course, 12 seconds is anything from a 1/3 to a ½ km.

Till next time safe driving and stay focussed by engaging your mind on the drive
The team at MASTERDRIVE
Remember Arrive Alive with MASTERDRIVE

http://advanceddriving.co.za