When driving your car, follow these recommendations:
Before setting off:
- Check that you have all the documents you need (identity papers, driving licence, etc.) (keep copies at home in case of theft or loss).
- Regularly check the technical condition of your vehicle to detect anything that could lead to a breakdown.
- Plan your route, check the traffic news, plan some things to keep your children occupied, if you have any, and if you are driving through other countries find out about any specific rules in their highway codes.
- Prepare your journey in plenty of time and try to make the trip as pleasant as possible.
During the journey:
- Make sure you are fully rested before you set off and take breaks every two hours.
- Do not forget to keep hydrated, choose light meals and keep abreast of the traffic news.
- Adapt your driving to the weather conditions.
- Keep noise in the car to a minimum: turn off the radio, keep the windows closed, etc.
- Do not hesitate to stop by the side of the road if you feel overwhelmed by any situation.
- In the event of a breakdown or accident, clear the road by moving the vehicles, warn other road users by switching on the hazard warning lights and putting the warning triangle on the road, put on your high visibility vest, get out of the vehicle on the verge side and go with your passengers to wait in a safe place.
Having regard to other road users:
- Look out for the thin silhouettes of cyclists and motorcyclists.
- Do not underestimate the speed and acceleration of motorcycles.
- As well as looking in your rear view mirror, turn your head and look over your shoulder when you are changing lanes.
- Avoid sudden, sharp or erratic lane changes.
- Take special care near schools and in residential areas.