Harrogate Borough Council

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Road Safety Tips

• Don't use your mobile phone whilst driving
  Making or receiving a call, even using a hands-free phone, can distract your attention from driving and could lead to an accident.
  
• Belt up
  Always wear your seat belt, even in the back. Remember that in a crash, an unbelted rear seat passenger can kill or seriously injure the driver or a front seat passenger.
  
• Don't drink and drive
  Any alcohol, even a small amount, can impair your driving, so to be a safe driver don't drink and drive.
  
• Slow down
  At 35 mph you are twice as likely to kill someone you hit as at 30 mph.
  
•   Pedestrians
  Children, adults and the elderly can act impulsively, take care everywhere. Take extra care near buses and ice cream vans when children might be around.
  
• Take a break
  Falling asleep at the wheel is thought to be a major factor in more than 10% of road accidents and up to 20% on motorways and similar roads. Plan to stop for at least a 15-minute break every 2 hours on a long journey.
  
• Walk safely
  When crossing a road always use a pedestrian crossing if there is one nearby. Help others to see you by wearing fluorescent or reflective clothing in poor light conditions.
  
• Anticipate
  Observe and anticipate other road users. Use your mirrors regularly and don't forget to glance into your blind area before altering your course. Motorcyclists, in particular, are often not seen.
  
• Use child seats
  Make sure children under 150 cms tall (about 5ft) use a child restraint suitable for their size. Check they fit properly every trip.
  
• Keep your distance
  Always keep a two-second gap between you and the car in front.