Horses are big strong animals, but they can be quite easily spooked and may rear up or bolt unexpectedly, the consequences of which can be very serious if on the road – not just for the horse and rider but for motorists too. If you are out driving and need to overtake a horse and rider, it is wise to slow down to about 15mph and drive cautiously, allowing plenty of space. Watch out for sudden movements, as horses can be easily startled and unpredictable. Don’t sound your horn, flash your lights or rev your engine as this may frighten the horse, and certainly don’t accelerate as soon as you have passed the horse.

If another vehicle is coming towards you on a narrow road, things can get a little tricky, which is why it’s essential to minimise your speed particularly when on rural roads, and pull over if and when it is safe to do so, to let impatient drivers pass by. By no means let them intimidate you.

Between 2010 and 2015, 11 horse riders were killed and 116 were seriously injured in collisions with vehicles. By understanding the risks and knowing how to drive safely when overtaking horse riders, we can reduce these numbers significantly.

Safe driving from Brittania!

Statistics show that almost 20% of car accidents are caused by drivers falling asleep at the wheel – the majority of which are men under the age of 30. To prevent this from happening, it’s wise to plan your journey to include a 15-minute break every couple of hours. If you’re already tired, it’s not ideal to start a long trip if you’re already tired. Bear in mind the risks if you have to get up unusually early to start a long drive.

If you start to feel sleepy when driving, find a safe place to pull over – do not stop on not the hard shoulder of the motorway! Drink a couple of cups of coffee or a high-caffeinated drink and rest up for about 15 minutes, to allow time for the caffeine to kick in. Although this should help, a caffeine drink is really only a short-term solution that will help you on your way; the one and only effective cure for sleepiness is proper sleep!

Safe driving with Brittania!

There is absolutely no shame is winding up lost when on the road; it happens to us all at some point! The important thing to do is remain calm and pull over when possible. The pressure of having someone close behind you could result in you becoming even more lost, and frustrate other motorists who know where they’re going.

If you have access to a phone, don’t be embarrassed to call someone for help – but be sure that you have pulled over safely beforehand. It’s also a good idea to carry a map or book of maps in your vehicle for such situations. If you have a sat nav, give it time to acquire satellite connection and don’t attempt to reconfigure it while driving.

If there’s anyone around, pull over in a safe place and ask for directions! You’ll be glad you acted accordingly and so long as you remain calm and abide to road safety, you’ll soon be on your way again.

Safe driving from Britannia!

Driving in stormy weather can potentially be very dangerous. Is your journey really necessary? Listen to the news and weather updates for travel advice before heading out. If there are any road closures or the police advice you to stay at home, you should think twice about driving off in a storm.

If the wind is particularly strong, it’s highly advisable to reduce your speed – not only will this give you more time to take action, it also enables you to brake more efficiently. If you’re driving in a wide-open area, your vehicle is more likely to be affected by strong winds, so try and stick to main roads and more built up areas. Reduce your speed and keep a lookout for road debris such as tree branches.

Heavy rain can increase the risk of aquaplaning – which is when you apply the brakes and your car carries on moving. Again, keep your speed to a minimum and be aware of excess surface water.

Safe driving from Britannia!

Did you know that using your mobile phone while driving makes you 23 times more likely to have a car accident? Texting in particular has become a common distraction for many motorists.

It’s important to be aware of the dangers and keep your focus on the road. It might be tempting to pick up your mobile phone while stuck in traffic, but the law against using your mobile when driving still applies when you’re stationery – whether at traffic lights, stuck in a jam or even supervising a learner driver.

Keeping your phone out of reach is highly advisable – nothing is more important than your safety and the safety of others. If you regularly need to communicate while driving, try installing a hands-free feature, such as a Bluetooth headset and/or voice commands.

Safe driving from Britannia!

Driving on a hot day can be very uncomfortable. Some cars are fitted with air conditioning, although it comes with a price, and increases fuel usage! Try slowing down to 30mph or under, turn off the air con and open your windows instead. If you’re driving faster than 30mph, it’s advisable to use the air con and have your windows closed!

Take a bottle of water on your travels to stay hydrated. If you’re tired, a caffeinated drink may prove beneficial. Of course, if you can avoid driving on a sweltering hot day, then do so – walking is healthier and you will reduce the traffic on the roads, and the likelihood of other drivers getting hot and cranky behind the wheel!

Safe driving from Britannia!

For a new driver, it can be a daunting few months getting to grips with life behind a wheel. It seems that almost every day, you are discovering new aspects to being on the road, whether those be great memories to make or experiences that you would rather forget…

Our advice would be to experience as much as you can, as fast as you can. While it’s not good to rush into anything you’re not quite ready fro yet, it might help you to step outside of your comfort zone and try motorway driving for the first time, or have a go at a long distance journey instead of just staying local. You never know, you might just learn something new along the way.

Safe driving from Britannia!

One of the most major problems many young, new and inexperienced drivers will face when learning to master the rules of the road is the aspect of communication, specifically with other road users such as fellow drivers, cyclists and even pedestrians. Misunderstanding another road user can put you in a dangerous situation if you choose to act in a way the other person is not expecting.

One example of this is flashing your headlights – Whilst may interpret this as a signal to “go ahead”, you should be careful using this as it is not designed for this purpose, and so you may well be penalised for this on your driving test.

Safe driving from Britannia!

There’s nothing better than driving in the summer – Sunshine, hot weather, roofs down, for many people it really is the pinnacle of driving experience. So that makes it all the worse when, instead of blazing sun and soaring temperatures, we are instead faced with a sudden, unexpected downpour.

Nonetheless, this is Britain, so unexpected weather is our speciality. It’s always a good idea to stay prepared for any eventuality at all times, so make sure to keep your eyes open for dark clouds overhead no matter what the weather, and if you are faced with a freak summer shower, make changes to your driving style accordingly to ensure you continue to drive safely.

Safe driving from Britannia!

Regularly cleaning your car isn’t just about making it easier on the eye. A dirty registration plate that cannot be identified could result in a fine of up to £1000. Bird droppings, sap, salt and acid rain can eventually lead to paintwork damage, which effectively protects the body of your car from elements like rust. If untreated, rust damage can lead to cracks and holes in your car’s bodywork which will end up costing you money and resources to repair!

A clean car is also safer to drive – you, your passengers and other road users’ safety is at risk if your visibility is compromised by dirty windows, windscreen, lights and mirrors. Also ensure that your car’s interior is clutter free, as objects rolling under the pedals could also compromise your safety. Finally, keeping your car in the best condition means the best trade-in value!