Vospers: My top ten new year resolutions for sensible and safer motoring

Here are my ten new year resolutions for drivers
1 - Plan your journey
With more traffic on the road and more challenging conditions it makes sense to leave more time and have alternative routes in mind. Ensure you have sufficient fuel or power to reach your destination as these are more expensive at motorway services.
2 - Regularly check the less obvious on your vehicle
Tyres are a good example. Check pressure and any uneven wear, the latter may be caused by tracking being out and corrected will improve safety and save money on early replacement.
3 - Learn how to get the best from the technology on your vehicle and use it!
Help with braking, keeping distance, speed limit observance, and lane discipline along with useful traffic information relieves stress.
4 - Respect speed limits
The previous resolution will help with ensuring you respect the 20 mph limit near schools and the 30 mph limit in heavily built-up areas, helping pedestrians and cyclists.
5 - Inform your fellow motorists about your actions
It seems many motorists have forgotten the simple basic, mirror, signal, manoeuvre. If you remember this you will cause less evasive action being necessary endangering others.
6 - Do not risk marginally beating a red light.
It is not worth the risk just to gain a few seconds and if someone is doing the same thing on the other side it could be fatal.
7 - Do not drive too close to the vehicle in front, particularly at speed.
If you succeed meeting number 3 this could prevent this happening.
8 - Drive more slowly in adverse conditions.
Strong winds and torrential rain are becoming much more common and you are more likely to arrive safely if you recognise these can cause loss of control and accidents.
9 - Be kinder to your fellow motorists.
You may be an excellent driver but only if you understand not every driver has your ability or confidence. Have patience, give way more often, and if they do make a mistake, shouting and showing frustration and anger does not help.
10 - Consider an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle when you are ready to make your next purchase.
As more new products become available at more comparable prices and the infrastructure improves many motorists can save money as well as help save the planet. Business users and commuters along with two car families, with the ability to charge at home off-road are already the big winners and it’s worth checking in 2024.
Whatever you do I wish you all a happy, healthy and safe New Year.