Driving off-road can be one of the most thrilling experiences you may ever encounter. Not only does it provide exciting challenges with varying terrain, but you appreciate the countryside in a way like never before. But, safety needs to be strictly adhered to at all times. What would be the point of having such fun if it ended in a disaster or tragedy? Let’s take a look at some essential off-road driver safety tips for South Africa.
Provide information about your travel plan1
It is vital that people at home, or at your base, know your travel plans. These plans should be submitted no matter where you drive off-road. The advantage of doing this is that in the event of an emergency, where people cannot contact you, they will have a good idea of your whereabouts. In fact, it is crucial to maintain regular contact with ‘base camp’ for this very reason.
Always travel with at least another vehicle1
It is advisable that you are accompanied by at least one other vehicle. The advantages are obvious – should you get stuck somewhere, you will have immediate access to help. If your vehicle breaks down, you will at least be able to get out of the area. Imagine being stuck in the Berg in one 4×4 late in the afternoon, while a vicious storm is approaching you?
Will you survive if you breakdown for a while? 1
It is best to take survival gear with you on a trip. You may be stuck in the middle of nowhere, and in the case of a medical emergency, you may not be near a hospital. Ask yourself the question; ‘do you have everything you need to survive a night in the area you intend to visit?’
Fasten firmly any loose items in the 4×4 vehicle1
Should the 4×4 roll or fall on its side, any loose items inside the vehicle can be turned into projectiles that can seriously harm or even kill the occupants.
Wearing safety belts is mandatory1
Just because you happen to be driving off-road does not mean you can start driving illegally. Not wearing safety belts is non-negotiable. The terrain on any off-road trail can become rough, and the driver and passengers will be thrown about quite a bit. You don’t want someone to crash into a window when the vehicle suddenly strikes a large rock.
Ensure no arms or legs are protruding from the vehicle1
Your 4×4’s windows will be rolled down and elbows will be sticking out while enjoying the breeze and the scenery on a hot summer’s day. However, your arm or leg could be injured by a tree while the 4×4 is negotiating a narrow section of road. Never hold onto the roll bar as fingers can be crushed if the vehicle rolls.
How alert are you? 1
Going off-road is not like a calm Sunday drive along a beach road. Off-road drivers need to exercise maximum concentration at all times. There is no room for casual distractions as serious accidents can happen so quickly. The minute you feel tired, pull off somewhere safe, and have a good break.
Park properly1
Being on uneven terrain when driving off-road, you don’t want your vehicle to suddenly go careering down the mountainside after you have parked it. When stopping, place the vehicle in park, apply the handbrake, and switch off the engine.
Now that you have read these great tips for your off-road trips, are you sure your car is covered adequately for off-road driving? Seek out car insurance that covers you for the increased risks associated with off-road driving. Perhaps check with your insurer if you are covered for driving off-road before you take part with your vehicle.
Maybe you prefer to only be a spectator when it comes to off-roading? Have you considered getting affordable car insurance with PMD that comes with unique benefits such as a reduce to zero excess* and fixed premiums*? T’s and C’s apply.
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
Source:
1https://www.4x4training.com/Articles/Safety/10SafetyRules.html
4×4 Off-Road Driving Techniques & Safety https://t.co/kU5MNaY88c #ArriveAlive #4×4 @AntonGeyser pic.twitter.com/aTpSZjWj6q
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) September 4, 2017