Arrive alive this Summer

It's summer - when we like to take it easy and this usually includes longer road trips. It's also a time for parties, relaxing and socialising.

For Arrive alive getting you to your destination and back safely is priority number one.

It's not hard - it just takes a bit of pre-planning before you leave home - here are some tips that will help you to Arrive alive this Summer...

Before you Leave

If you're planning to drink - plan not to drive. There are many alternatives like sharing a taxi with friends, checking out public transport timetables, staying overnight at a friend's place, arranging for a friend or relative to give you a lift - all of these are great ways to avoid drink driving.

Plan where you are going - study the route you are taking so once you take off you can concentrate on the driving, especially if you are travelling on highways or on long trips.

Check the conditions - knowing what your driving into, seek information about weather and road conditions as well as any unusual traffic activity ahead: being aware of locations where there are crashes, road closures, work zones, or heavier than usual traffic will help you avoid them.

Check your car - remember when your Dad used to pop the hood and make sure there was oil, water, coolant and air in the tyres. He did that for a very good reason - to keep you safe. Now it's your responsibility. Make sure your car will make it. Breaking down is stressful, inconvenient, embarrassing and not to mention dangerous. Take time to make sure your car is running smoothly and safely.

Behind the Wheel

Stay aware - on long trips, it's important to take regular breaks. Yawning, drowsiness, and tired eyes are all warning signs of fatigue. Share the driving and take breaks every two hours to stay alert.

Try to avoid driving at night - most fatigue-related accidents happen between the hours of 10PM and 6AM so try to avoid driving at these times, especially over long distances.

Watch your speed - use the posted speed limit as your absolute maximum. Do not go over it, and make sure you are aware of the speed limit at all times in your journey.

Respect the driver - drivers need to focus on the driving. Think about who you choose to have in your car as you are responsible for them and every passenger you add increases your risk of a crash.

If you feel unsafe as a driver or passenger, speak up, this could include asking the driver to slow down or if you're driving asking passengers to allow you to focus on driving.

Wear a seat belt - it might save your life, and help to avoid a fine.

Never text when you're driving - don't use mobiles when you're behind the wheel. You are 400% more likely to have an accident, using a mobile phone while driving.