How to Be Safe When Driving at High Speeds
Aside from trains and aeroplanes, people use dual carriageways to get from one part of the country to another quickly. A dual carriageway is a highway that is divided by a median. Because each carriageway only handles one direction of traffic and does not have any traffic lights or stop signs, drivers can travel at high speeds, usually around 60 to 130 kilometres per hour. These infrastructures reduce travel time and accident rates, as well as allow suburban development. However, they also increase the severity and death rates of the mishaps that occasionally occur.
Thus, when driving at high speeds on a dual carriageway, you need to take precautions. First, always wear your seat belt; in fact, many countries have made the wearing of seat belts a law. In addition, have a car mechanic check if the airbags are working.
Next, when driving, stay at a comfortable speed, usually around 70 to 80 kilometres per hour. If you have to slow down, step on your brake gently, steadily reducing your speed so that the car next to you will have plenty of time to manoeuvre out of your way. Also, turn on your signal light 50 metres before you change lanes or make a turn.
Be sure to keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Sometimes, you may find yourself in the middle of a group of cars running at high speed. To get out of this "wolf pack," gradually slow down and let others overtake you until you are alone on the carriageway again.
Finally, speed down when driving on wet roads to prevent aquaplaning. This occurs when a thin film of water forms on your tyres due to high speeds, causing them to lose contact with the road. Aquaplaning is very dangerous because you will lose control of your car.
