DRIVES OF HAZARD Most of us are excited on landing at a new destination, especially when we’ve been handed the keys to a smart hire car to drive. You rush through all the documents quickly because you want to get behind the wheel, get out there and explore. As you drive out on to the busy highway – SMASH - the once in a lifetime road trip starts with a costly mangled headlight. You didn’t look in the right direction and worst of all you didn’t look at the car hire small print – it can happen to us all. It is a fact that road accidents are one of the biggest causes of injury and death for tourists overseas. You are around three times more likely to be involved in road accidents than locals. Even experienced drivers get disorientated on unfamiliar roads, especially us Brits who often have to drive on the other side of the road when overseas. Our brains need time to adjust to a number of factors for even routine tasks such as driving. Familiarise yourself with local driving laws, wear a seat belt at all times, be extra observant, drive slowly and take your time. Before you hire, check the car, body and tyres.
Be wary of motorbike rentals and wear a helmet. Remember the following: The first 60 minutes are critical: Most accidents occur within the first hour after you’ve rented the car. You can be tired, have jet lag, be recovering from medication or alcohol, combine this with a new driving environment and for some the mental gear change can be too much. So rest before you set off, mentally rehearse your new driving moves; think about the new controls of the car. Prepare and be alert for overtaking and turning safely. Watch your speed: Overseas visitors are one and a half times more likely to have a serious accident when travelling at up to 110 km per hour than domestic drivers. 53