MOTORING NEWS - Texting blinds you. Every time you text while driving, you take your eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds. If you're travelling at 88km, that's equivalent to driving the entire length of a football field, blindfolded.
Don't leave it to chance
The fatality rate for drivers and front seat passengers who do not buckle up is 85%. The odds are against you. Why take the risk? Fasten your seatbelt!
Talk at your own risk
Hands-free does not mean distraction-free. Research shows the phone call itself is the main distraction and a hands-free set does not significantly lower the risk of an accident.
Dangers of technology
Did you know that new technology is posing a significant danger on our roads? 1 in 8 drivers (12%) has used the Internet, social media, or other mobile phone apps at the wheel, half of those on a regular basis.
Vehicle safety checklist
Did you know that 3 in 10 (28%) don't know how to check the brakes, while 1 in 5 (20%) doesn't know how to check their car's tyres? Having your brakes and tyres in good order is essential for safety.
The gender gap
More than three-quarters (77%) of all road traffic accidents occur among men. Young males under the age of 25 years are almost 3 times more likely to be killed in a car crash than young females. We can prevent this by practicing safe driving habits.
Saved by a seat belt
100 000 - that's the average number of people saved by seat belts every year.
Airbag speed
The only thing that should be speeding is your airbag. Deployed at speeds of up to 321km in 0,2 seconds, the airbag provides protection between you and the steering wheel, dashboard or windshield during an accident.
Stay in your lane
You are three times more likely to get into an accident every time you change lanes. Always signal early, and check your mirror and blind spot to change lanes safely.
Mind your head
Helmets are estimated to reduce the likelihood of fatalities in a motorcycle crash by 37%. It may mess up your hair, but it can also save your life.
Text & crash
Text while you're driving and you're 20 times more likely to be involved in a crash. Always ask yourself - is that message worth it?
Ride with extreme caution
Motorcyclists suffer from the highest rate of accidents and casualties. Compared to car passengers, they are 35 times more likely to be involved in a road traffic accident. Always ride with care and cultivate safe riding habits.
Cyclists should beware too
Even if your two-wheeler doesn't have an engine, you should still wear a helmet. Why? Cyclists made up 9% of all road user casualties.
Speed watch
Almost 24% of collisions due to inappropriate speed result in fatalities. So don't just watch the road. Watch your speed too.
Source: Toyota
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