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LOW RISK DRIVING |
Road Safety PLUS - by Dieter R. Fischer ISBN No. 0 09577 426 0 6 |
| 3. Crash Avoidance Factors |
25. Better late than DEAD on time
Running late is seldom anyone’s fault. The person calling didn’t know you were about to leave for an appointment. The baby soiled the nappy just as you were walking out the door. You’d forgotten you had to call at a friend’s place before work.
The natural reaction to leaving late is to try to make up time on the road. Without thinking you are increasing your risk of crashing in three ways:You are more likely to exceed the speed limit.
A mere 10 km/h. more increases the risk factor considerably.You are tempted to sacrifice safety margins.
(Tailgating, too close to other traffic, too fast around bends).You take risks.
(Trying to overtake, when dangerous etc.)
Crash caused by impatience:
A driver in a hurry: The white vehicle appears to be a hurry to cross behind the yellow van. There is a small break behind the van, which the white car is trying to take. In the rush the driver takes no notice of the pedestrian about to cross.
What now? The rushing white car is trapped between the (possibly slow) pedestrian and approaching traffic (blue car). Older pedestrians are vulnerable to this kind of mishap.
If you are running late, phone the other person, if possible. For real important appointments, such as catching a plane or a job interview, allow time for an unexpected delay.Leaving home 10 Minutes late - expect to arrive at your destination
10 Minutes late.
Disclaimer: Above information is for Australian learner drivers. Regulations could vary in your part of the world. We take no responsibility for any accidents, failed driving tests, even if the advise in this book has been followed. We recommend to use above information in conjunction with a professional driving instructor.