Before hitting the road for the holidays, you might consider a bit more planning than choosing the routes you will have to take, to ensure you get there safely, and with less upset passengers.
A new survey conducted by Nissan in Europe has found that planning your journey properly (not only Google-mapping it when you get behind the wheel), choosing the right listening material (the driver obviously gets the final say), and driving more considerately will do wonders to reduce the stresses between drivers and passengers on long road trips, as well as increasing the safety on the road. And this will make a huge difference over the holidays if you can still enjoy the company of those that came with you, without a squabble simmering in the background.
The top 5 causes for in-car arguments in Europe are:
- Using the phone while driving/texting while driving (45%)
- Dangerous overtaking (39%)
- Last-minute braking (35%)
- Sudden or harsh braking unnecessarily (33%)
- Tailgating (32%)
Even though we do not live in Europe, many of these ring true on this side of the equator as well. Not to mention the obvious negative effect this can have on your safety on the road.
Nissan conducted this research in response to feedback from European drivers and launched the Nissan JUKE’s Stress-Free Driving Guide. “As we all look to reconnect with the enjoyment of driving again, it’s crucial to understand that the secret to a harmonious car journey can often be found in the car itself,” said Arnaud Charpentier, Region Vice President, Product Strategy and Pricing, Nissan AMIEO.
Even though the stress-free driving guide is compiled with JUKE drivers in mind, it can be applied to most drivers on the road in South Africa.
Nissan JUKE’s Stree-Free Driving Guide
- Hands-free for stress-free!
Use the Bluetooth functionality to ensure that your phone does not distract you whilst driving. This will also give your passengers less reason to become stressed out and less reason to start an argument. If you urgently need to use your phone, pull over somewhere safe or get a passenger to send the message.
- Good music the key to joyful driving
Have a great journey by ensuring everyone has time to shine as a DJ and taking it in turns to select songs. Agree on a playlist with your passengers before you depart. Any votes for Baby Shark do not count.
- Smooth sailing
“If you can read this, you are too close!” Maintaining a safe following distance (give yourself about 2 seconds behind the car in front of you) will keep sudden braking and swerving at a minimum, and keep you and your passengers happy.
- Enjoy a break
It is commonplace that the driver gets in and only stops when he/she wants to stop. Regardless of what the passengers want. Remember, it is a journey, not only a destination. Take the time to stop every now and then, and your passengers will thank you, and that extra cup of coffee will just be the pick-me-up you might have needed.
READ: 2021 Nissan Patrol gets NISMO treatment
- Spot the car!
When going for the overtake, always take a good look around to make sure the next lane is clear and there’s nothing coming up quickly behind you. This is safer and keeps you and your passengers relaxed.
Safe travels.
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