Road Safety During The Pandemic

If you think roads have become safer during the pandemic, think again. Instead of peaceful, empty intersections, the community restrictions have brought about heavy traffic, harried drivers and commuters, and shorter tempers. It's the perfect setting for road accidents. 

Whether you're going on a long or short drive, it's wise to take extra precautions and drive defensively. An untimely accident during the pandemic could be more financially and emotionally draining given the healthcare situation. Here are a few tips to help you avoid road mishaps. 

• Prep your car and self. Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy. Just because you didn't drive it too much during the pandemic doesn't mean your vehicle isn't due for an oil change, wheel alignment, or tune-up. Cars left unused for long periods might even be worse for wear since their engines and parts aren't well lubricated. Consumables like tires, belts, and hoses also degrade over time, so check or replace them before you go for a spin. When in doubt, follow the BLOWBAGETS (Battery, Lights, Oil, Water, Brakes, Air, Gas, Engine, Tires, and Self) rule before you hit the road. 

• Plan your trip. Gridlock happens even during the pandemic. Don't be tempted into leaving the house much later than usual. Although some roads seem less congested now, major thoroughfares still experience moderate to heavy traffic. Allocating a reasonable travel time can relieve you of unwanted stress, help you keep a cool head, and prevent you from driving recklessly and have a good time.  

• Ensure you're covered. Before you step into your vehicle, see that you, your passengers, and your ride are covered from accidents. A reliable safety net like Malayan Insurance's AutoMaster protects you, those you are with, and injured parties from the physical and financial aftermath of vehicular accidents. It also has CAMILLE (Call Malayan Insurance Live Line), a free roadside assistance program for policyholders that provides emergency towing if your car breaks down due to mechanical problems or encounters an accident. 

Being on the go also increases your exposure to COVID-19. A six-in-one non-life insurance policy like Vital Cover with COVID-19 Cover shields you from its financial burden. For as low as PhP130, you can get financial support if you fall ill of COVID-19, and reimburse accident-related expenses.

• Focus on the drive. Don't let anything steal your attention while you're at the wheel. Yes, your To-Do list might be bursting with tasks but push those thoughts aside and concentrate on driving. Other distractions like loud chitchats, rowdy passengers, sending texts, or online calls can distract you. Remember, once you're in the driver's seat, driving becomes your main priority. 

• Take breaks. Driving can be mentally and physically draining. The act of staying alert, analyzing road situations, making quick decisions, and the physical rigors of steering a 1,300 kg car can take a toll on drivers. Make a stopover, or better yet, get a substitute driver to take over before you get tired. 

Don't let your guard down when you're on the road. It's best to be more cautious than being on the receiving end of an accident. The country's leading non-life insurer, Malayan Insurance, has a full range of products that can secure yourself and those you care about for any eventuality.