By Staff Writer
As South Africa’s holiday season kicks into gear, many travellers are hitting the roads to enjoy a well-earned break. While our country offers breathtaking scenery and unforgettable destinations, safety on the roads remains a top priority. According to Arrive Alive, both good infrastructure and responsible driving are key to ensuring everyone reaches their holiday destinations safely. And this is where planning, and a trusty GPS, can make all the difference.
Plan Your Trip Before You Start
A well-planned journey isn’t just about reaching your destination, it’s about doing so safely. Motorists who take the time to map out their route are more likely to avoid the dangers of speeding, road rage, and distractions. Pre-trip planning also allows drivers to familiarise themselves with alternative routes, rest stops, and emergency services along the way, ensuring a smoother, more relaxed drive.
Why GPS is a Game-Changer
Even if you know the roads, a GPS can elevate your safety and confidence on the journey. Satellite-based navigation systems provide real-time updates on traffic, road conditions, and potential hazards.
Modern GPS systems can also:
- Highlight accident-prone zones and other hazardous stretches of road
- Alert drivers to traffic violations, crashes, or road closures
- Help maintain appropriate speeds with speed camera warnings
- Offer alternative routes, whether the fastest, easiest, or most scenic
- Provide real-time information on speed limits and estimated arrival times
Beyond convenience, GPS systems enhance driver behaviour in unfamiliar areas, reduce stress levels, and keep motorists alert. They also help identify essential facilities along the way, including service stations, maintenance centres, and emergency services, giving drivers the information they need to respond quickly if an issue arises.
The Right Way to Use GPS
As powerful as they are, GPS systems can be dangerous in the hands of an inattentive driver. Studies in Spain have shown that driver distractions account for about half of car accidents, and fiddling with navigation systems is a major contributor. Many onboard systems start with a screen warning drivers to input addresses only when the vehicle is stationary, a reminder that must be heeded.
Motorists should remember that GPS is a tool, not a replacement for careful driving. Always keep your eyes on the road, follow traffic rules, and use your system responsibly. Some authorities are even considering fines for drivers who operate GPS while the vehicle is in motion, a stark reminder of the potential risks.
Set Out with Confidence
With thoughtful trip planning and a responsibly used GPS, your holiday journey can be safer, less stressful, and far more enjoyable. Take the time to prepare, stay alert, and let technology work for you — not against you. After all, a great holiday starts long before you reach your destination.
This feature is adapted from information published on www.arrivealive.co.za
