Maintaining the correct air pressure, regularly checking tread depth and keeping an eye out for external damage are all essential factors of keeping your tyres in good nick! Try to avoid skidding and swerving, and if you regularly travel long distance, it’s probably wise to carry out the above checks more often.

Say you’re driving along and realise or think you have a flat tyre – oh no! First things first: keep calm, find a safe place to pull over and check it out. Remember to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers, apply your handbrake so as to minimise the possibility of your car rolling, and switch off the engine. A lot of cars nowadays come with a puncture repair kit, which might save you from having to change the tyre. If not though, be sure you know how to do this before going for a drive on your own, otherwise you’ll need to contact the rescue team!

Safe driving from Britannia!

Many drivers loathe the two-wheeled commuter with a fiery passion, and if you’re one of them, here’s what you need to remember: cyclists are people just like you, trying to get somewhere with as little inconvenience as possible. As fellow road users, we should all get along and avoid aggravating one another!

When overtaking a cyclist, be sure to give them plenty of room so as not to unnerve them or in case they unexpectedly swerve. On approaching a queue, be mindful and respectful of cyclists and don’t cut them up, thus preventing them from passing by. Not only are you holding them up by doing this, you might even encourage them to mount the footpath, the results of which could be dangerous.

Safe driving from Britannia!

No one likes a smart aleck – and worst of all is the notorious know-it-all in the seat next to or behind you, thinking they know when is the right time to notch up a gear or give way to fellow motorists. Don’t lose your cool or doubt your own capabilities to make decisions – let them have their say, but remember that as the driver, your actions are ultimately down to you and you only.

The same applies vice versa: if you are the one dishing out pointers and can’t resist the urge to lean across and hit the horn, try exercising a little diplomacy! Driving can be a stressful business full of conflict, split-second decisions and close shaves, so that last thing your driver wants is further hindrance to their concentration! Stay calm, have a little faith and assume that whoever is behind the wheel knows what’s best for them and for their passengers.

Safe driving from Britannia!

Don’t let those dreaded cones and temporary traffic lights grind your gears. If you aren’t the most patient of drivers, or are in a hurry, why not take an alternative route? You may well find a better way to work that saves on fuel, mileage or precious time. Most importantly, be respectful and understanding – with all the traffic on the roads these days, their surfaces take the brunt and will inevitably require maintenance!

Don’t put lives at risk by exceeding the temporary speed limit when passing roadworks either. Having to drive slower might well cause delays, so keep regularly updated on what roadworks are where, and set off earlier to reduce the likelihood of road rage and/or anxiety of being late!

Safe driving from Britannia!

Go easy on the revs and don’t be a speed freak! Sensible drivers save on fuel by taking extra care when on the road. Don’t waste fuel in a tedious traffic jam – if you can avoid the rush hour, great!

It’s also a good idea to keep the windows and sunroof closed as this reduces ‘drag’ and makes your car more streamlined, as does removing the roof rack, if you’ve got one.

Safe driving from Britannia!

Take care of your wheels and undercarriage by being mindful of dreaded potholes! These are likely to form especially during the winter season, when water gets into the pavement, freezes and weakens parts the road beneath the weight of passing vehicles.

If you can’t avoid a pothole, be sure to kill your speed and hold the steering wheel firm so as not to lose control of the car. Be cautious of puddles too – they might well be potholes in hiding!

Safe driving from Britannia!

Buying a new car can be a tricky business… whether its value for money or fancy new technology that grabs your attention, be sensible, take your time and remember to manage your expectations.

Don’t let your excitement get you lumbered with a gas-guzzling rust bucket that ends up costing you more in repairs! If necessary, have someone with you when browsing for a new car – a friend or family member who can offer a second opinion.

Safe driving from Britannia!

One of the key factors when it comes to driving is having your wits about you at all times. Distractions can vary, from your mobile phone buzzing to a CD that needs changing. Don’t risk your life and the lives of others for a text or even a bite out of your subway sandwich!

It’s advisable to have devices, food and other temptations out of sight while driving, so as not to deter your eyes off the road. If it’s really that urgent, find a safe place to pull over beforehand.

Safe driving from Britannia!

Driving isn’t just about getting from A to B – why not be spontaneous; brush up on your geography skills and take a road trip? There’s no better way to spend a sunny day, hone your motoring skills and build confidence. Having a car (and a licence, of course!) is freedom, so make the most of it and have some fun!

Try avoiding the same old routes you’re used to – Venture off the beaten track and explore new areas you’ve never driven down before, maybe even try your first time on the motorway – Who knows what you might find?

Safe driving from Britannia!

We’ve made it – The end of another week, and time to start the weekend before we’re all due back at work on Monday morning. Will you be driving this weekend? If so, make sure to read our top tips fro Friday night driving right here.

Due to the excitement caused by the first night in the weekend, many drivers may not be fully concentrating on the roads – Worse still, others may be intoxicated, so be sure to stay on your guard at all times, especially if driving in or around city centre areas.

Safe driving from Britannia!