Click on the links below for more information about each product:

• Parrot MKI9000 and MKI9100
• Parrot MKi9200
• Parrot MKi9200 2
• Parrot Minikit Slim Portable Bluetooth hands free kit
• Parrot Minikit Slim , Bluetooth Hands-Free Kit
• Parrot CK3000 and CK3100

Introduction

It is only prudent that we use the advances in technology to improve road safety as well. Not only have cars become safer with ABS brake systems and other technology - but so too has our ability to measure safe driving behaviour. Car insurance companies have been closely involved in the development of vehicle telematics to deliver data that could allow them to calculate driver risk.

This term is described as "insurance telematics" whereby insurance companies are better able to calculate insurance premiums based on the actual driving behaviour of their insured clients.

We have decided to share the experiences from one of these insurers. Discovery Insure is using the DQ-track system developed by Ctrack to measure the driving behaviour of their clients. Discovery Insure has provided the following information:

What does it mean to be a good driver?

Do you consider yourself to be an excellent driver? If so, you’re not alone. Whether you happen to be zipping along the 120km/hr freeway at a record speed of 40km/hr, or an aspirant F1 driver dodging obstacles at a higher speed than mandated for, many South African drivers believe they are good, responsible drivers.

Not everyone can drive like F1 drivers, who are known for their high fitness levels and high driver safety awareness and understanding the performance envelope of their vehicles being the speed, acceleration and cornering profile within which their vehicle can safely be driven. F1 drivers are reputed to be safe drivers while driving on the roads, sharing them with pedestrians and citizens alike. They cannot afford to drive badly, as they are perceived to be role models for good, safe driving, and a few are in the public eye as ambassadors for the global Decade of Road Safety 2011-2020 campaign which promotes good driving behaviour and aims to reduce the number of road crashes and deaths worldwide.

So, if F1 drivers who are after all, human too, do experience accidents from time to time, it begs the question of what it means to be a good driver, especially on South African roads which are notorious for being among the world’s most dangerous roads to traverse. This is a question we at Discovery Insure are interested in. Through our driver intelligence, Driver Quotient (DQ) scorecard, we are able to scientifically quantify and qualify what good driving behaviour is. The average driver, according to Arrive Alive statistics, makes up to 15 major decisions per kilometre travelled. That is a lot of decision-making for one individual, and it is critical that we all take driver behaviour seriously as the consequences of bad driving behaviour obviously are a high number of road accidents and unnecessary deaths.

Lessons from Formula 1 on good driving

Opinion tends to differ on what it means to be a good driver. For some, in traditional insurance terms, it means being accident-free for a good number of years, for others, it is not talking or texting on the phone while driving, and for others it may be remaining within the speed limit. Discovery Insure, which has 18 000 Discovery Insure drivers, understands that good driving is much more than these stand-alone elements, and that it involves a combination of three components, namely: driver performance, knowledge and awareness and vehicle condition and roadworthiness. These components form part of the DQ-Track programme, which is a scientifically and actuarially robust measure of good driving.  

We have worked closely with Rory Byrne, who led the design of F1 cars for over 20 years and is our Special Engineering Adviser, to refine out the DQ-Track model. Rory believes that what it means to be a good driver is to be someone who understands their own abilities and the capabilities of their vehicles, for slow drivers do not necessarily make good drivers, or fast drivers good drivers; and that gender isn’t a differentiator as anyone can become a good driver.

South African driving survey

South African drivers appear to have a built-in over confidence when it comes to their driving ability. This was reflected in a survey Discovery Insure undertook when we surveyed members on how good a driver they thought they were out of three categories: excellent, moderate and poor. The results revealed that 81% of South Africans believe they are excellent drivers. However, the sad reality is that, according to recent data our DQ-Track programme has accumulated, only 10% of these drivers are actually excellent drivers. As for the rest, 58% percent are moderate drivers while 32% are poor drivers. This does not bode well for our country where road accidents and road-related deaths feature in our day-to-day lives, and is set to increase.  On the positive side, we have seen a marked improvement of driver behaviour and more Discovery Insure members are becoming excellent and moderate drivers,

DQ-Track system/Insurance Telematics and Driver Analysis

The DQ-Track analyses driving indicators such as speed, acceleration, braking, cornering and more which enables us to measure how well our clients drive. These results are calculated through proprietary algorithms and sent to clients on a monthly basis with a review of their driving for said month, and suggestions on how they can improve their driving ability, thus equipping them with evidence-based information they need to become better drivers. The DQ-Track, which allows each driver to be measured and rewarded appropriately based on their individual behaviour, has generated over 91 million kilometres of behavioural data.

Good driving behaviour rewards are earned through DQ points for improving their driving, awareness and vehicle safety, and achieving a driver status much in the same way a Discovery Health member would receive rewards based on the Vitality model for making healthy lifestyle choices. Discovery Insure has a powerful reward of up to 40% cash back on fuel spend which has proven to resonate with consumers given the rising cost of fuel. To date, Discovery Insure has seen over 128 000 fuel transactions, and over R8 million in rewards has been paid out to our drivers. The more a driver engages with DQ-Track, the greater the rewards.

Sasha Martinengo & Rory Byrne 

The beauty of the Discovery Insure model is that our data shows that bad drivers, with the help of DQ-Track feedback, are driving better. We are able to see this link through correlating driver behaviour to the rate of accidents. This is an important find, for it shows that over time South African drivers can through incentives, improve their driving and reduce the country’s high road death rate, and that  Discovery Insure has the capability to make a substantial contribution towards creating safer roads for all South Africans and their families. This is in alignment with our group’s core purpose of making people healthier, enhancing and protecting their lives, particularly when taking into account that there are about 14 000 fatalities on our roads each year, and if nothing is done about this, these numbers will continue to rise.

Sobering facts to take into account, especially given World Health Organisation estimates that about 1.3 million people die each year from road traffic crashes, and between 20 – 50 million people sustain non-fatal injuries that may leave them disabled for life. Worst of all, over 90% of these deaths occur in developing countries. If this ‘epidemic on wheels’ as it is aptly described, is not acted upon, the WHO predicts that by 2015, road crashes will become one of the leading causes of premature deaths and disability for children aged 5 and above worldwide, and that by 2020, there will be up to 2 million deaths per year, placing road deaths in the top category for deaths. Furthermore, this number could double in developing countries by 2030.

Decade of Road Safety 2011-2020

As a response to this, the WHO’s global Decade of Road Safety 2011-2020 campaign promotes good driving behaviour and aims to reduce the number of road deaths by 50%, saving five million lives and in the process, make a real difference to five million families. These figures highlight the importance of being a good driver, and it is our vision that in time, our approach to improving driving will be standard in our society and to reduce the unacceptably high rate of accidents on our roads.

Information with recognition to        

Anton Ossip is CEO of Discovery Insure

Rory Byrne is Special Engineering Advisor and Board member of Discovery Insure. He was Chief Designer at Ferrari during Michael Schumacher’s reign atop Formula 1

For more on vehicle and insurance telematics also view:

What is Insurance Telematics and how will it impact on car insurance?

Vehicle Insurance Telematics

Driver Intelligence to be measured by Discovery with Discovery Insure

Outsurance activates technology to reward safe driving behaviour

Pay As You Drive and Car Insurance

Vehicle Telematics, Accident Investigation and Fleet Management

Car Insurance and Road Safety in South Africa

Foreword

1. We will encourage and inspire people to play a role in reducing congestion.
2. We will increase the availability of TomTom HD Traffic.
3. We will lead the continuous improvement of traffic and route guidance technology.
4. We will bring together key traffic stakeholders to share ideas and drive key actions forward.

• Grow the number of drivers using TomTom’s HD Traffic navigation system.
• Expand HD Traffic’s coverage to 29 countries.
• Make our technology available on leading mobile platforms. We aim to have millions of people using TomTom’s HD Traffic navigation system via smartphones.
• Build relationships with automotive manufacturers with the goal of having TomTom’s HD Traffic navigation system as standard on in-dash navigation systems.
• Build relationships with global, regional and local TV, radio and internet channels and broadcasters to offer them our superior HD Traffic information. We aim to reach tens of millions of people.

3. We will lead the continuous improvement of traffic and route guidance technology

• Continuously improve the accuracy of our traffic navigation system in countries around the world.
• Set up and co-fund a major experiment to measure the impact of technology on road congestion and provide a technology benchmark for other cities.
• Establish a TomTom Traffic Foundation, dedicated to developing our knowledge about traffic.
• Build a larger network of traffic navigation partners from universities and research organisations around the world.
• Develop progressively better models to predict congestion reduction and which will uncover additional areas for improvement of our HD Traffic navigation system.

4. We will bring together key traffic stakeholders to share ideas and drive key actions forward

• Hosting an annual traffic summit, bringing together the most talented professionals in our industry.
• Partnering with governments and advising on city and route planning, in order to help predict and reduce road congestion.
• Partnering with environmental and green organisations, to discover new ways in which traffic management could reduce CO2 emissions.
• Creating a public web space where people can contribute comments and ideas for tackling congestion. This public forum will become a place for constructive discussion and debate.
• Hosting regional ‘traffic jams’ aimed at bringing students together to learn, explore and share from traffic experts and each other.

• GPS and Road Safety

Road safety is a top priority for Matrix Vehicle Tracking. The fact that all our customers are vehicle owners and are potentially affected by dangerous situations on the road has led to the establishment of the Matrix Road Safety Association.

The Matrix Road Safety Association (MRSA) actively provides consumers with information on road collisions via the media, whilst providing an informative, online training service detailing the cause, prevention and other general safety information pertaining to road accidents.

A critical benefit of the Matrix Road Safety Association is the fully-equipped medical emergency vehicle that patrols the roads of Gauteng, with a paramedic on board who provides onsite medical care.

Please use this site to empower yourself and/or your loved ones with life-saving road safety information.

All South Africans have a duty to ensure that their actions on our roads do not impact negatively on the lives of others.

The Matrix Road Safety Association empowers road users with life-saving information and creates awareness about being responsible when behind the wheel.

Daily information on serious road collisions, as well as detailed safety-related training material, will regularly be uploaded on the Matrix website: www.matrix.co.za. 

Alco-Check is a social responsibility driven company that supplies breathalysers throughout South Africa. With branches in Cape Town, Durban, JHB and PTA, we aim to educate people and create awareness of alcohol consumption and the effects on blood alcohol content(BAC), we provide a tool in the form of Alco-Check machines that are available to patrons at the moment of truth.

• Drunk Driving and Road Safety
• Alco-Check Website

View this video clip on Alco-Check:

• Time of Day
• Light conditions
• Accident Type
• Specified Cause
• Weather conditions
• Road Surface Conditions
• Visibiity
• Junction Type etc.

Click to download the stats.

• Windscreen: 
  Car windows do offer some protection, blocking most UVB rays, an intense form of UV that often causes sunburns. "The reality is that any of the glass in the car will get out most of the bad UV," says study co-author Paul Nghiem. He adds that UVA rays, though less intense than UVB rays, penetrate glass and can still cause damage to the skin over time.
   
• Window Film: 
  Transparent window film screens out almost 100 percent of UVB and UVA without reducing visibility, and is available in South Africa. If you have window film installed, remember that it protects you only when the windows are closed.
   
• Closed Side window: 
  Dr Nghiem says that for most people who drive with their side window closed, there is no reason to apply sunscreen before driving. But for drivers prone to skin cancer who spend large amounts of time driving, wearing sunscreen is prudent. Sunlight accounts for one in 10 skin cancers on the arm. Dermatologists advise drivers to keep the window rolled up and wear long sleeves to prevent skin cancer. 
  
  Dr. Lisa Kellett, a dermatologist in Toronto, agrees with the advice, noting that closing the car window helps reduce the risk, but that some UVA radiation can still penetrate through the glass and cause skin cancer. 
   
• Sunscreen:
  Dr Lisa Kellet recommends everyone, particularly children, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day, whether in the car or not. A sunscreen should be on hand for quick reapplication during long drives (The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends reapplying every two hours). Look for one with an SPF of 15+ and some combination of the following UVA-blocking ingredients: avobenzone, ecamsule, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide.
   
• Solid closed Roof
  A solid, closed roof remains your best solution. 
   
• Keep your hat on! 
  If you have a sunroof or a convertible top, wear a hat, preferably a wide-brimmed one. At the very least, be sure to apply sunscreen to exposed areas of the face, neck, and scalp where your hat may not be able to provide cover.
   
• Keep limbs inside the vehicle! 
  The second most common area for skin cancers was the arm, so, in addition to applying sunscreen, avoid propping your elbow up on the open window while you drive. Keep both arms inside the car, and your hands on the wheel. Long-sleeved shirts are also a great sun-protective option.
   
• Remember those sunglasses
  Along with the hat and sunscreen in your car also keep some UV-blocking sunglasses at hand for the road, and you'll have a sun protection travel kit to see you safely to your destination.
  
  If you have prescription spectacles for driving, make sure you always wear them. 
  
  Wear professionally prescribed sunglasses to protect your eyes from sun glare. They will also screen out harmful ultraviolet radiation.

• Road Safety and Health
• Hidden danger of driving is exposed
• LLumar Window Film and Road Safety

How can South Africa stop the carnage on its roads?

• Death rate in South Africa is 27.51 per 100 000persons , compared to
• Australia 5.71 
• Canada 9.2, and 
• India 11.1

• There is no proper regulation that is enforceable
• No standard for driver education
• No formal syllabus to be followed
• Corruption at testing stations is rife
• Learning time too short and not compulsory

• The anxiety of the pupil is decreased.Training happens in a safe environment without stress, which enhances learning.
• Situations which one cannot see while driving (skidding of the clutch for example) can now be visualised.
• Because the driving environment is entirely controlled, the focus onprogressive teaching objectivesis more concentrated.
• A simulatormakes it possible to follow a progression established in advance and to evaluate the trainee’s performancein a methodical manner.
• The traineecan be put in and made accustomed to situations that do not occur frequently on the road. A simulator training environment is without risk and thus authorizes experimentation in dangerous situations.
• A simulator ensures standardised driver training, thereby guaranteeing a level of quality for all students, resulting in safer driver behaviour.
• Simulation can immediately output the results of the training. This means that a trainee can quickly know hismistakes and take corrective action.
• Fewer hours on the road reduces fuel consumption, which is good for the environment. One hour in the simulator gives a CO2 emission of 13 times less than one hour in a car.
• The simulator ensures high quality training in less time and at lower cost.
• The driving simulator is very suitable for traineeswho have a fear of driving.
• Driving simulation integrates with classroom sessions.

Introduction:

• Light motor vehicles
• Heavy motor vehicles
• Motorcycles

• All the test requirements
• How you’ll be tested and marked, and pass marks required
• Comprehensive preparation manual to learn from – in easy-to-understand language
• All the rules of the road, road signs, signals and markings
• National Road Traffic Act excerpts for reference purposes

• Question bank of over 1,000 questions
• Unlimited number of practice tests
• Performance and readiness reports to see if you’re ready for the official test

• How the K53 test is conducted and scored
• The pre-trip vehicle inspection requirements — everything you need to check in front of the examiner
• Full explanation of the K53 elements and procedures you must follow during all aspects of the driving test
• Every yard test manoeuvre explained step-by-step, including illustrations
• All the requirements for each road test situation — exact sequences you must follow
• On-screen animations so you can see the manoeuvres in action
• The same kind of information specifically for the motorcycle test

Introduction to Brakes and road Safety

• ABS [Anti-lock braking system]is an automobile safety system that allows the wheels on a motor vehicle to continue interacting tractively with the road surface as directed by driver steering inputs while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up (that is, ceasing rotation) and therefore avoiding skidding.
• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) is an autonomous road vehicle safety system which employs sensors to monitor the proximity of vehicles in front and detects situations where the relative speed and distance between the host and target vehicles suggest that a collision is imminent. In such a situation, emergency braking can be automatically applied to avoid the collision or at least to mitigate its effects.

• Tyres and braking: Tyres are one of the most important elements when stopping a vehicle quickly and efficiently. One of the factors used in calculating braking distance is traction coefficient. The higher the traction coefficient is, the shorter the braking distance will be. Braking distance can change greatly based on the type and condition of the vehicle's tyres. Tyres with little or no tread will be more susceptible to skidding during heavy braking. When the tyres skid (a decrease of the traction coefficient), they lose traction and increase the braking distance. The tyre compound or makeup can also change braking distance. Some high performance tyres offer better adhesion under heavy braking and won't break loose or skid as easily as harder tyres.
   
• Braking and Suspension Systems: If any of these components aren't up to specification or in poor condition, the vehicle's braking distance can change. Worn brake drums, rotors, pads, shoes or leaky brake lines will have an adverse effect on braking. Since weight transfer has so much to do with braking, worn shock absorbers and springs will only add distance during braking. When these components are worn, the weight wants to move to the front of the vehicle when you hit the brakes hard. [See Shock Absorbers and Safe Driving]
   
• Road conditions: The condition of the road and our ability to adapt to these conditions will affect braking distance. Dirt and gravel roads don't offer good traction and increase braking distance. Freshly paved asphalt offers the best adhesion. 
   
• Weather Conditions: We always need to consider the weather conditions and how this impacts on the road surface and the vehicle. Wet roads increase braking distance. Snowy and icy roads decrease traction even more. 
   
• Driver ability: Driver experience and knowing your vehicle are important for safe and fast braking. Drivers can only benefit from additional driver training and advanced driving courses to enhance their driving skills.
   
• The Braking system: Whether or not the vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) must also be taken into consideration in calculating stopping distances.

• original speed of the vehicle
• the type of brake system in use
• the reaction time of the driver/rider and 
• the coefficient of friction between its tires and the road surface.

• ‘Normal’ Braking: Under normal circumstances (on a dry and relatively clear road), you should be able to brake early and apply gentle pressure to the brakes. As you feel the vehicle begin to stop, apply a little more pressure, but ease off as you come to a full stop so that you do not stop too abruptly.
   
• Emergency Braking: If an unexpected situation arises that requires you to stop, you should brake straight away, but try to avoid braking too sharply, as this can cause your wheels to lock up and your vehicle to skid. With ABS, depress the pedal all the way down. Without ABS, brake moderately hard (70%) while taking off a bit of steering. It's always better to brake too much rather than too little. In a real emergency, it's best to simply stamp on the brake pedal and let the car stop.
   
• Braking in Bad Weather: If the road is wet or icy, you will usually need to alter your braking technique. This is particularly the case in icy conditions. It is extremely easy to lose control when taking a bend. The safest way to negotiate it is to brake gently on the straight leading up to a bend, so that you are travelling slowly when you reach the bend. Avoid braking sharply as this can lead to a skid. If you are worried about the grip (or lack of it) on the road, you can test it by braking gently to gauge the effectiveness. Do not leave it until just before a bend to test the brakes, as you will not have enough time to dry them out before you need to break.
   
• Braking after driving through water: If you have to drive through a considerable amount of water, your brakes can lose their effectiveness for a while afterwards. Test the brakes by braking gently to see if they work properly, but make sure that you do this only when it is safe to do so. If you find that they do not work as effectively as normal, apply light pressure to the brakes while you are driving at a fairly slow pace, as this will dry them out.
   
• Braking and Turning /Changing Direction: Avoid braking and turning at the same time where possible. Turning while on the brakes can cause the vehicle to not turn as well or not slow down as much. 
   
• Brake-Turning: Turning the wheel into the corner while still lightly on the brakes. This causes the car to lean forward, pressing the front tires to the ground, giving them more grip for steering. This is a basic technique, and no corner should be made without it.
   
• Trail Braking: This is a method of feathering the brakes while turning into the corner and it will provide the best and safest control over the vehicle as it is leaning on the front tyres, allowing for more traction to those tyres.

• Following Distances and Road Safety
• Stopping Distances for Trucks and Road Safety
• Stopping Sight and Driver Reaction Time
• Vehicle maintenance and safety guide to roadworthiness of vehicles

• Replacing the Brake Discs
• Replacing the Brake Drums
• Replacing the Brake Pads
• Replacing the Brake Shoes

Introduction

1. Where in any prosecution in terms of this Act it is alleged that an offence was committed on a public road, the road concerned shall, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, be presumed to be a public road.
    
2. Where in any prosecution in terms of this Act it is alleged that an offence was committed on a freeway, the road concerned shall, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, be deemed to be a freeway.
    
3. Where in any prosecution in terms of this Act it is alleged that an offence was committed on a public road in an urban area, the road concerned shall, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, be presumed to be a public road in an urban area.

Introduction:

• Guide to Bus Passenger Safety 
• Bus Safety /Truck Safety
• Bus Industry in South Africa and Road Safety
• School Bus Safety

Introduction:

• Road Safety and the Suppression of Bus Fires
• Guide to Bus Passenger Safety 
• Bus Safety /Truck Safety
• Bus Industry in South Africa and Road Safety
• School Bus Safety

Introduction

The Fleet Management and Logistics Industry is one of the best indicators of the heartbeat of the economy of a country. Fleet management is a term used to describe the management of any/all aspects relating to a company’s vehicle.  Fleet vehicles are those vehicles over which a business has some degree of influence in their selection and operation.

One of the components of transportation costs for any business is insurance. Fleet insurance has is an essential part of a business and with attention to detail a company can both reduce insurance costs, enhance the safety of employees and still benefit from as much coverage as is required.

In this section we would like to discuss how the effective management and fleet insurance of vehicles could also make a significant contribution towards Road Safety.

What is Fleet Insurance?

Fleet insurance is the insurance of a group of cars, commercial vehicles, and trucks etc. that are insured under the cover of one policy. Fleet insurance manages the risk of all your business vehicles under this policy, and is designed to distribute the risk across the board so you do not pay more than once for each peril.

It does not make financial sense to insure each of them individually under their own insurance policy and pay for each individual vehicle’s risk. Fleet insurance assesses the risk of the entire fleet, and evaluates the premiums based on the perils for the entire fleet instead of per vehicle, while catering for those risks specific to owning a high volume of vehicles.

Fleet insurance is an important and effective part of managing the commercial fleet of a business. From truck insurance for small businesses to insurance for large fleets of vehicles, there are flexible commercial vehicle insurance options to meet the requirements of any company. Businesses require cover that is cost-effective and comprehensive, with an effective account management team to handle claims efficiently and without fuss.

Fleet insurance is generally used by companies that use vehicles to travel for business purposes but can also benefit an individual that drives many vehicles.

Specialized needs of Vehicle Fleets: What are these specialized needs?

It is important to recognize that fleet managers and logistics companies have unique needs and are confronted by some rather unique threats and risks as well! These businesses also have specialised insurance requirements.  

Whether the business requires commercial vehicle insurance for light or medium vehicles, or heavy duty truck insurance, it is important to consult with the right insurer to ensure that the business gets the optimum level of vehicle cover.

Heavy commercial vehicle insurance requires that the insurer understands the operational demands of operating a number of heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles. Businesses operating in the transport industry, that deploy vehicles to an especially far-reaching and intensive degree, need an insurer that appreciates the unique risks faced by the transport industry, in order to receive truck insurance that meets the peculiar demands of extensively operating heavy vehicles.

Fleet vehicle insurance must also take into account the complexities of insuring business vehicles, such as insuring cars for multiple drivers and making sure vehicles can be used for as many applications as necessary.

Business vehicles, particularly heavy vehicles used in the transport industries, may travel extensive distances, often crossing borders into Africa. It may therefore be important that your truck insurance provider offers commercial vehicle insurance with expansive territorial limits, so that trucks and other fleet vehicles can cross borders as necessary without complication.

As fleet insurance covers vehicles used for transporting goods, it often includes cover for cargo while in transit. This though depends on the insurer. Otherwise, stock insurance can be added to the business insurance portfolio, which covers cargo while in transit and in storage under the protection of the logistics company.

Shuttle service companies and other transport services may consider taxi insurance combined with fleet insurance, as taxi insurance includes liability cover, which is important given the risk of personal injury and death when transporting people.

Calculating Commercial Fleet insurance costs

Fleet insurance has become a very specialized field. The leading fleet Insurers determine the cost of fleet insurance premiums according to a variety of factors. The requirements for fleet insurance are generally different for every company but there are some basic factors that every company will take into consideration when deciding on fleet insurance eligibility.

The main factors are the number of vehicles to be insured and what kind of vehicles those are. If the company is insuring a mixed combination of different types of vehicles the insurance and the cost will be different than a quote for five of the same type of vehicle. The age of the vehicles and the condition that they are in will also greatly affect the price of fleet insurance as is the estimated mileage that the vehicles incur.

The process to determine the premium rates for fleets is usually referred to as fleet rating. Within the completion of fleet rating different skills processes will be used depending on the type of fleet. The size of the fleet as well as the claims history will be used—referred to as the claims experience basis. Other factors may also include vehicle telematics solutions and scientific data collected on driving behaviour.

For small fleets the rating will largely depend on the book value of each car covered under the fleet but some adjustment for expense savings will be allowed. Larger fleets will mostly be rated through experience rating where the credibility will increase according to the size of the fleet.

Fleet insurance differs from ordinary business car insurance by covering the vehicles across their ordinary route, which includes routes across international boundaries. This must be confirmed with your insurer, however, as the route influences the risk that the insurer covers.

To qualify for fleet insurance, the vehicles must be owned by the same business (or person). The insurer usually requires a minimum number of vehicles in order for the insured to qualify for fleet insurance.

It remains the duty of the fleet owner to keep the insurance company informed of any changes to the fleet.

Benefits of Fleet Insurance for Commercial Vehicles

The largest benefit of fleet insurance is of course that many different vehicles are covered under one policy with a simplified process of claims administration. When a claim is made, the process is much smoother and more efficient than when handled through another type.

This eliminates much of the worry and stress of handling a different insurance policy for each different vehicle. If the company has two cars used for business travel and three vans for a delivery business, compiling two car insurance policies and three van insurance policies would become a major hassle. Fleet insurance will simply cover all the vehicles and ensure that each vehicle is outlined in the policy.

One other main benefit of fleet insurance is that drivers who may struggles to become insured under an individual policy, may have coverage provided to them using a fleet insurance policy. This will not only provide them with a way to obtain coverage but can also add to their past history should they wish to choose individual insurance at a later time.

Companies that provide fleet insurance will still take into account the driver's past history and experience and determine a final quote accordingly however, the policy is still much cheaper than purchasing individual insurance.

Insurance Telematics and Road Safety

Even though the advances in insurance telematics in the passenger vehicle market is relatively new, fleet managers and logistics companies have benefitted from vehicle telematics for a number of years now.

We have covered this extensively in sections such as

Fleet Management / Logistics and Road Safety

Vehicle and Insurance Telematics

The benefits of effective on-board technology and vehicle telematics solutions for fleet managers include:

• Accident Data and Analysis provide evidence
• Accurate reports save time in accident reconstruction and legal proceedings
• Effective Control by the Fleet Manager
• Driver behavior can be monitored and short - comings addressed
• Reduction of Liability and Maintenance Costs

One of the major benefits is however the ability to provide accurate driving data to the insurance company and to do driver ratings and risk profiling. Scientific measurement of driving behaviour not only relates to safer driving, but also reduces accident and insurance risks.

With these products the driving behaviour of drivers of a fleet are monitored directly while they drive and this information can be transmitted to the business, fleet manager and insurance company. The insurance company is able to accurately assess the risks presented by those drivers of having accidents and to charge insurance premiums accordingly.

The tracking technology can further reduce fleet insurance premiums by reducing the risks of vehicle theft and hijacking. The usage of state of the art vehicle telematics by fleet managers should enable these managers to gain more affordable fleet insurance premiums.

What should business owners look for in fleet insurance?

It is important that an effective consultation process and full disclosure of all material facts lead to the insurance agreement. It may be advisable to gain other third party confirmation of the ability and experience of the fleet insurance company. The fleet insurance industry is highly competitive and it is important to make well informed decisions.

The fleet insurance premiums should be based specifically on the risk profile of that specific business.  The business owner will be well advised to enquire as to:

• The ability of the insurer to administer the claims processes effectively and quickly
• Availability of emergency roadside assistance - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Cover for reasonable storage costs or towing to the nearest repairer.
• Who are the approved repairers that the insurer deals with?
• Cover for the costs incurred for the removal of the wreckage as well as costs for replacing locks, keys, remote controls or the reprogramming of vehicle security systems.
• Cover if needed outside the borders of South Africa (Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia as well as the DRC]
• Cover not only for the vehicles but also for accessories and spare parts
• Legal liability insurance cover for causing damage to the property of other parties as a result of a vehicle accident.

Some insurers also provide the following additional benefits:

• comprehensive fleet reviews
• claims experience assessments
• strategic marketing to selected Insurers
• fleet management and access to risk audits
• access to driver training and workshops

Conclusion

Road Safety is the ultimate beneficiary as fleet managers and logistic companies strive for affordable commercial vehicle fleet insurance. Affordable fleet insurance depends on safer driving behaviour and the ability to accurately measure such driving. Fleet insurance will reward safer driving and this will assist in reducing accidents and improving road safety!

Also view:

Fleet Management / Logistics and Road Safety

Vehicle and Insurance Telematics

Vehicle Telematics, Accident Investigation and Fleet Management

Car Insurance and Road Safety

Introduction

Women are regarded in the insurance industry as ‘’safer” drivers and less likely to be in a road accident. Even though all motorists need to be alert and cautious, female drivers unfortunately have to be even more vigilant in order to avoid falling prey to criminal acts such as hijacking, intimidation, sexual assault or worse. Our women drivers are still regarded as more vulnerable by most criminals.

In this section we would like to offer advice and a few precautions that could enhance the safety of all drivers - and especially our female drivers!

Preparation/ Anticipation and Prevention of Dangerous Situations

Drivers should always consider the threats and possible worst case scenarios – and plan to avoid as many of these as possible.  Precautions would include the following:

Vehicle Maintenance

• A well-maintained car is less likely to break down - Keep your car in good mechanical condition and have it serviced regularly by a reputable garage.
• Have a safety check done before each long trip. Even better - learn how to change a tyre, jump-start the battery, or change a wiper blade. The more you empower yourself with basic maintenance tips, the less chances of you being the damsel in distress.
• Never run out of fuel. Get into the habit of filling when the tank's half empty rather than waiting for the warning light.
• Get faults diagnosed and fixed promptly rather than waiting for them to get worse or hoping they'll go away.
• The vehicle handbook will provide important information on specification of oil, antifreeze to use if you have to top-up etc
• Check tyre condition and pressure regularly. Get damaged or excessively worn tyres renewed, and don't forget to check the spare.

Plan Your Trip

• Plan your route if the journey is unfamiliar, and keep to well-lit main roads.
• Don't drive after dark into areas you don't know, if you can avoid it. It is easy to get lost, and become a target for criminal activity.
• Drive with a decent GPS for enhanced safety, and tell someone your route, and what time you expect to arrive.
• Always be ready in the event of a delay on the road -Ensure your cellular phone is fully charged - and invest in a car charger should you not already have one.
• Add emergency numbers to your phone - such as that of a motoring assistance company, car insurance company etc.

Safety While Driving

While you drive you can enhance safety by focusing on the following:

• When stopped in traffic, leave enough space to pull out from behind the car you are following.
• Lock all doors and roll up the windows while you drive.
• Be especially cautious when you approach intersections crowded with street vendors, newspaper sellers, beggars and street kids.
• Keep your valuables - laptop, handbag, mobile phone - out of sight. Even though there has been success in reducing hijackings, theft from vehicles in SA has increased!
• Drivers are often distracted at their window by a person only to be robbed by his con partner on the other side.
• Should you wish to interact with someone alongside the vehicle open the window only a few centimetres to talk.
• NEVER give lifts to strangers /hitchhikers.
• Beware of anyone who signals that there is something wrong with your car, unless you know that they are right and it is dangerous to drive on.
• If you suspect that you are being followed, drive on to the nearest police station or busy place to get help.
• Sound the horn in potentially dangerous situations.
• Avoid distractions while driving - Keep the volume of your car radio at a reasonable level so you are aware of your surroundings and, tempting as it may be to check phone messages or update Facebook and Twitter while in traffic, your phone should be off every time you turn on the ignition.
• Driver distractions will leave you vulnerable to hijackers and smash-and-grab thugs who could use the element of surprise to creep up on you.
• Avoid engaging with strangers on the road - Women attract attention simply by being women drivers. No matter what type of car you drive, just for being a woman some freak may try to engage with you on the road.
• Avoid strangers trying to get your attention - just drive on, or turn at the next intersection.
• In the event of an incident of road rage, don't get into a verbal exchange, just take the high road and ignore the person.

In Case of Emergency

We can unfortunately not predict every emergency situation - and there is often little we can do to avoid them. What should we do during an emergency?

Engine Failure

• It helps to have an emergency kit, snacks and water with you in the vehicle at all times. A coat, sensible shoes, blanket, torch, money and cellular phone may well be the best items to provide comfort in an emergency situation.
• Should your vehicle break down, pull over, turn the fourway flashers [hazard lights] on and call for emergency assistance.
• If someone offers to help, stay in your car and roll down the window only a few centimetres - just enough to tell the person that help is on the way, or to ask them to make the phone call if you do not have a phone.
• If someone tries to get into your car, attract attention by sounding your horn.
• Never accept a ride with someone you don't know. Unfortunately, we live in a country with a history of abuse towards women. No matter how friendly the help may seem, you need to stay in your vehicle until help arrives.
• Never follow a stranger who offers to help you find your way on an unfamiliar road or street. Wait in your vehicle and ask for directions.
• If you have a flat tire in a dark or dangerous location, drive slowly to the nearest service station or public place. Even if you ruin the tire, you will not have risked your life.
• On fast flowing highways it is safer to retreat and park up the bank, or behind a barrier rather than wait in the car where you would be exposed to danger from passing vehicles. If you do feel at risk from another person, return to your vehicle by the left-hand side and lock all doors. Leave the vehicle again and get back behind the barrier as soon as you feel the danger has passed.
• If your car is rammed from behind and the hit seems to be deliberate, stay in the car with the doors locked. Wait for the police to arrive.
• Do not assume that an unmarked vehicle with flashing lights is a police car. Keep on driving slowly until you can pull over in a well-lit area such as a fuel station. Park as close as you can to the entrance of the kiosk or a fuel pump and hoot to attract attention.
• Should the vehicle following you be genuine police in it will approach you - When they do, open the window just enough to speak to them and ask to see their police IDs.

Noticing that you are followed

• Should you notice a vehicle following you closely, turn into a different road than the one you would normally take, but take note of road signs and landmarks so that you remain aware of your surroundings.
• Should the other vehicle turn into the same road, take a few more twists and turns. If the other vehicle continues to stick with you, it would be safe to assume you are being followed and may be the target of foul play.
• Do not stop or allow the other driver to pull up beside you, or try to out-drive them.
• Drive to the nearest police station - but if it is too far or you don't know where it is, drive to the nearest fuel station or convenience centre. In an emergency there is indeed strength in numbers!

Parking and Safety in Parking Areas

Our female drivers should pay close attention to safety when parking their vehicles in the street or at the mall. These car parks are often a haven for criminals to prey on innocent and vulnerable victims:

• Always park in a central, well-lighted place, preferably where there are attendants on duty or people passing by.
• Note which floor and area you have parked in, and have your keys ready when you return.
• Try to park so that you will approach the driver's side of the car when you return. You won't be surprised by someone who is crouching by the door.
• Hold your keys in your hand as you approach your parked car. Don't wait until you reach the car to search for them in your purse. Experts say you're most vulnerable when you are getting into or out of your car.
• If there is a large vehicle or suspicious looking car parked next to yours, or even if you feel uneasy about approaching your vehicle, rather find a security guard or car guard to walk you to yours.
• If no one is available, look for a nearby couple or group of people and either ask for an escort or simply blend in with them should they be walking in the direction of your vehicle.
• When approaching your vehicle, regardless of where you have parked it, always walk around it to check for any irregularities.
• Wait until you're close to the car before unlocking it, and if the car design allows it, unlock the driver's door only.
• Avoid conversations on the cellular phone as you return to the car as this will only distract you.
• Do not fiddle with your handbag and do not lean too far into the boot.
• Some security experts even advise women with long hair to tie it back for a clearer, all-round vision.
• Position your body and trolley in a manner which would give you an advantage over a would-be attacker.
• Check the back seat before getting into the car, even if you left it with the doors locked.
• Be particularly vigilant with regard to your wheels, as often criminals place sharp objects either behind or in front of your tyres in an attempt to puncture them, or when placing goods into your boot.
• If you park on the street always choose a busy, well-lit place.

Conclusion

We would like to commend our female drivers on the caution they usually display on our roads. May these recommendations contribute to increased safety awareness and protection from criminals sharing our roads.

Also view:

Hijack Prevention Guidelines and Road Safety

Pregnancy and Safe Driving

How to handle an Emergency

Child Restraints and Road Safety

Introduction and Definition

Crime and criminal activity require from South African motorists alertness and caution to more than only other vehicles.

Even though progress has been made in fighting hijackings and vehicle theft, there has been an increase in theft from vehicles. Many of these are what can be defined as “Smash-and-Grab”.

In this section we would like to discuss the crime of smash-and-grab in more detail and offer recommendations to motorists on preventing this sudden invasion of privacy and likely loss of possessions.

What is a smash and grab crime?

A smash and grab criminal turns a pleasant drive into a nightmare when criminals are pouncing on unsuspecting drivers. The criminal act is usually characterized by smashing through some sort of barrier (e.g. vehicle window) while the car is stationary at traffic lights or stuck in slow moving traffic and grabbing something of value (e.g. jackets, handbags, laptops, etc).

A smash and grab usually plays on the element of speed and surprise  -The violent smashing of the window at the passenger side places the motorist in a few moments of silent paralysis – just enough to get hold of the valuables and flee the scene!

These car burglaries can be expensive, from the cost of repairs to the vehicle and windows to replacing your belongings. The victims will most likely be traumatized and feel victimized for quite some time.

What is being targeted?

The thieves are usually after valuables which they can easily identify from outside the vehicle and sell as easily once removed from the possession of the motorists. Items targeted include:

• Purses, hand bags and wallets
• Laptop bags, briefcases and backpacks
• Shopping bags
• Cell phones, MP3 players and tablets
• Loose change and CDs
• Keys

Where are drivers most at risk and what are the methods used?

We find in the media mentions and warnings of so called “Hot spots”. Even without warning signs the cautious driver would be able to identify areas where he/ she would be most at risk. These tend to be places where criminals know that vehicles will be stationary, where drivers can be easily distracted and where the criminal can make a quick and effective escape.

Who are most vulnerable?

• The victims are most often single drivers with belongings on the passenger seat.
• Criminals tend to focus on female drivers well knowing that they are less likely to chase after them.
• Drivers who are distracted are most vulnerable – those busy on the cellular phone or with a cigarette in the hand.
• Vehicles left unattended away from the crowds and with valuables visible are easy targets for a quick smash-and-grab.

Methods used and Modus Operandi

• Criminals will focus on those areas where they know traffic is often congested and where vehicles will remain stationary for a while.
• These criminals also will often work in pairs where one will pose as a vendor, distracting the attention of the driver while the other party will perform the smash –and-grab from the passenger side.
• Objects are sometimes placed in the road and motorists make the mistake of leaving their vehicles to remove these objects. This is when the vehicles are then easily targeted.
• Communication technology such as cellular phones has also enabled these criminals to identify potential victims from a bridge or position of elevation and to relay this message to their partners in crime further along the road.
• The person making the smash and grab will most likely select the scene of the crime as an area where a fast getaway would be possible for him and any pursuit would be difficult.

Advice on preventing smash-and-grabs

Even though it is not always possible to avoid the so called “hotspots” where these criminals prey on unsuspecting motorists, it is possible to reduce the risk of becoming a smash and grab victim. Motorists can make these burglaries more difficult. Smash-and-grab car burglars don't want difficult challenges and would rather prefer to move on when they suspect hurdles to the swift execution of these crimes.

We would like to advise the following measures:

Safe Driving

• Lock all your doors and close the windows when driving - Never open vehicle windows or doors for strangers.
• Avoid opening your windows or getting involved in discussions with street vendors or anyone handing out flyers.
• Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious looking characters.
• Always be conscious of your surroundings and remain alert when coming to an intersection or stopping your vehicle.
• Be wary of people standing at intersections – They may be innocent but perpetrators mix with these people while waiting for an opportunity to pounce.
• If you encounter obstacles such as rocks or tyres do not get out of your vehicle to remove them -immediately reverse and drive off in the opposite direction.
• If it’s late at night, slow down well in advance so that the light changes green by the time you reach the intersection.
• Leave a gap between you and the car in front of you to give you room to escape (i.e. drive away from the scene), if anything should happen. 
• Be especially wary whenever you see broken glass lying on the road. If the pieces of glass are still scattered across the road, chances are that a smash and grab occurred just recently.

Taking Away the Attraction

• Reduce the chances of becoming a target by removing that which the criminals are trying to get their hands on.
• Smash-and-grab car burglars aren't exactly criminal masterminds. Many simply act on impulse.
• Don’t have bags, cellular phones, briefcases or other valuables visible inside the vehicle – valuables only attract thieves who may break your car window.
• Hide your valuables. - Car floors, dashboards and seats are not good places to leave items.  
• If you can't take valuable items with you, hide them out of sight in your trunk.

Safety when Parking

• Thieves target car parks. Always park your car in attended parking lots.
• When parking at night ensure that you always park in a well-lit area.
• Keep your car visible. Thieves do not want witnesses - You can help prevent a smash-and-grab by parking your car in crowded areas near pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
• Never sit in your vehicle without being conscious of your surroundings.
• Lock your doors and roll up your windows when you park
• Activate your security system
• Consider window tinting (if permitted by local laws)
• Avoid using the console or glove box as mobile lockboxes
• Don't hand a car burglar your keys. Leaving your key on the dash or in the ignition is an invitation to a car burglar. And keep in mind that if you have a great hiding place for a spare key (in your wheel well or above your sun visor), a thief has thought of it, too.
• Stow your belongings like shopping bags and laptops in the trunk before you get to the parking area.

Window Safety Film

What is ‘smash and grab’ film?

Protective safety film is pasted on vehicle windows to help prevent smash and grab incidents. The protective film is usually tinted so that no one can see into the car, while also preventing the windows from shattering. While the glass breaks, the film holds the pieces in place, which further protects you from broken glass.

Although smash and grab film may not prevent smash and grab incidents from taking place, it will give you a few extra minutes to recompose yourself and drive away safely.

If you don’t have smash and grab film installed, leave your window open slightly (approximately 3 cm, but less than 5cm) whilst driving. This makes the glass more flexible and more resistant against shattering if they’re struck by a sharp object.

Safety film is however not only a deterrent for criminals. Other benefits include:

• It protects passengers from being hit by dangerous glass splinters when the glass breaks in side-impact accidents.
• Windows film can reject up to 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays, helping to protect you against skin cancer, and your car’s interior from fading and cracking.
• Safety film forms an invisible shield to reduce glare and resultant eye fatigue.
• The film also improves your comfort by keeping the vehicle interior cool and comfortable in scorching heat, reducing the load on the air conditioning and thus saving fuel.

Keep in mind that some car insurance companies provide a discounted premium to vehicle owners installing window safety film on their vehicles.

Conclusion

The cautious driver will be able to prevent most incidents of smash-and-grab. If there is nothing to grab there is no reason for the window to be smashed! Trust your instincts. If you see suspicious activity, find somewhere else to park. We would like to urge motorists to report suspicious activity to the proper authorities - you can help prevent others from becoming a victim of a smash-and-grab or another crime!

Also view:

Preventing Hijacking

LLumar Window Film and Road Safety

Road Safety and Your Windscreen

Car Insurance and Road Safety

OUTsurance and Preventing Smash-and-Grab

Introduction:

Days of the week and time of day in which hijackings occurred:

• The attack must be unlawful.
• The attack must be imminent or have commenced.
• The attack must not have been completed.  One cannot act on grounds of self-defense for an attack committed an hour earlier.
• The defensive action must be directed against the attacker.
• The defensive action must be proportionate to the circumstances.  The value of property involved and the instrument used for attack are important considerations.

• Most hijackings take place in the driveways of residential areas.  These hijackers prefer areas with accessible escape routes.
• Hijackings take place while stationed at any traffic sign or intersection.
• Hijackings take place while stationary next to the road, e.g. to answer cell phone.
• Hijackings also occur at post offices and parking areas or you may be followed leaving the filling station with the objective to hijack your vehicle where it is quiet.
• The hijackers sometimes use a vehicle to force the victim off the road.
• Hijackings take place at schools when dropping off / picking up children.
• Hijackings take place while the vehicle is idling when off-loading / loading passengers.
• Hijackings take place when advertising your vehicle for sale (Test drive method).
• Bogus Police or Traffic Officers also conduct hijackings (Blue light scenario).

• 2km from your house strategy.  Be extra alert.  Switch off the car radio and concentrate on your surroundings.  If you have noticed any vehicle behind you, use the techniques you have learned during the hijack prevention & survival course to determine whether you are being followed.  
• Remember to stop your vehicle just on the inside of the gate and select reverse whilst waiting for the gate to close.  This creates confusion and may buy you a few seconds for the gate to close completely behind you.
• Check your driveway and street before you leave or enter your premises.
• Make sure your driveway is well lit and clear from shrubbery where perpetrators can hide.
• Be aware of unknown pedestrians close to your residential address – do not turn into your driveway – pass and go back later.
• Liaise with your neighbours – know them.
• Be aware of vehicles parked close to your address with occupants inside.  It might be perpetrators observing the area.
• Be alert if your animals do not greet you at the gate as usual.  It might be that the perpetrators over-powered them.
• Phone your home and ask for someone to make sure your driveway is safe and to open and close the gate for you.
• When returning home after dark, ensure that an outside light is on, or have someone meet you at the gate.  Check with your armed response company if they are rendering rendezvous services.
• If at any time you have to open the gate yourself, make sure nobody suspicious around and the road is clear.  Stop right in front of your gate.  Do not switch off the vehicle, leave the key in the ignition, get out and close the door (not creating temptation).  Then open the gate.  Drive in and close the gate immediately behind you.
• If you have small children in the vehicle, take the key with you (this is the only exception).  You need the key as a “negotiating tool”.  The perpetrators want your vehicle and you want your children.
• If your children are older, it is advised that they exit the vehicle with you when opening the gate so that you are all separated from the vehicle should an attack occur.

• Check rear-view mirror to ensure you are not being followed.
• When exiting your vehicle, be cautious and aware of surrounding obstructions and shrubbery that may be concealing a hijacker.
• Never sit in your parked vehicle without being conscious of your surroundings.  Sleeping in a stationary vehicle is particularly dangerous.
• When approaching your driveway, be on the lookout for suspicious vehicles / persons.  This is very important as the majority of hijackers approach their victims in home driveways.

• Have your key ready, but not visible.
• Inspect the outside and inside of the vehicle before unlocking.  Check underneath your vehicle for items placed under the wheels.  Also make sure nobody is hiding on the passenger side before you enter your vehicle.  (As explained during the hijack prevention & survival course)
• Know your destination and directions to it; and be alert should you get lost.
• Always drive with your windows closed and doors locked.
• Make a mental note of any Police Stations in the vicinity.
• When stopping behind another vehicle, leave half a vehicle length in front of your vehicle to make an emergency escape if necessary.
• When dropping off a passenger, make sure they are safely in their own vehicle before departing.
• Avoid driving through high crime or unfamiliar areas.
• Avoid driving late at night / early hours of the morning when the roads are quiet.
• Drive in the center lane away from pedestrians where possible.
• If possible, never drive alone.
• NEVER, EVER pick up hitchhikers or strangers.  (VERY IMPORTANT)
• Never follow routine routes when driving; change on a regular basis.

• If approached by a stranger while in your vehicle, drive off if possible or use your hooter to attract attention.
• Lock your doors, close your windows and do not have bags or briefcases visible in the vehicle.  Use the boot for this.  Cell phone should also not be visible.  
• There are times and days that these items are visible in the vehicle.  Try and open the window they might “smash & grab” about 3 cm, so the window can absorb the sudden impact.  If you’ve left your stopping distance you may be able to escape.
• Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious looking characters or vehicles and do not hesitate to report them to the SAPS.
• Always be on the alert for potential danger, and be on the lookout for possible escape routes and safe refuge along the way.
• When approaching a red traffic light at night, slow down so that you only reach it when it turns green.
• Do not take anything from people standing at traffic lights or places where they gather (job seekers on gathering points).  Perpetrators are usually standing among these people.
• Make sure you are not followed.  If you suspect you are being followed, drive to the nearest Police Station or any busy public area.
• If any person or vehicle in a high-risk area arouses your suspicions, treat it as hostile and take appropriate action, e.g. when approaching a red traffic light, slow down, check for oncoming traffic and if clear, drive through the intersection.  A fine will be preferable to an attack.  Treat stop streets in the same way.  Thereafter call for assistance if necessary.  Always report these incidents to the SAPS.  But remember, this is not an excuse to ignore the rules of the road.  The onus will be on you to prove in a court of law that you had justifiable reason to act the way you did and this is only in the case of a real, life-threatening emergency. 
• Should a suspicious vehicle in fact be a (unmarked) SAPS vehicle, the Police must identify themselves by:
  • Use of a blue light, loudspeaker or any other police equipment.
  • The flash of a badge through the window whilst driving is not enough.
  • The Police must go all out in order to let the public know who they are.
• Consider the following actions:
  • Switch on emergency lights and put your hand out the window (if possible), indicating that they should follow you.  Your intention must be very clear and understandable.
  • By exceeding the speed limit, you are sending out a message of suspicion, e.g. stolen / hijacked vehicle, transporting stolen goods, under the influence.
  • Drive to the nearest Police Station or when in doubt, the nearest busy public area.
• Always have your identity document and driver’s license in your possession as well as a pen and notebook to take necessary notes.
• If possible, avoid driving in the dark.  Hijackers may stage a minor accident, for e.g. If your vehicle is bumped from behind and you do not feel comfortable with the individual involved in the situation, indicate he / she must follow you and drive to the nearest Police Station or any busy public area for help.
• Never open your vehicle window or door for any stranger.  If a suspicious person is near your unoccupied vehicle, do not approach the vehicle.  Walk to the nearest public area and ask for assistance.
• If you encounter obstacles in the road, e.g. rocks, tyres, do not get out of your vehicle to remove them.  Reverse and drive away in the opposite direction.
• Do not stop to eat or rest on deserted roads.
• Do not leave your vehicle unattended at a filling station.
• Cell phones should be carried on the body.  Perpetrators will not allow you to remove your cell phone and valuables from the vehicle during an attack.

• Remember the direction from which they came and fled, as well as the time and place the incident happened.
• Remember to make mental and physical notes immediately after the incident to ensure accurate and detailed information for the Police investigation.

• Do not lose your temper, threaten or challenge the hijacker.  
• DO EXACTLY AS TOLD BY THE HIJACKERS!
• Do not resist, especially if the hijacker has a weapon.  Surrender your vehicle and move away.  Try to put as much distance between yourself and the hijacker(s) as speedily as possible.
• Do not reach for your purse or valuables.  Leave everything in the vehicle.
• Try to remain calm at all times and do not show signs of aggression.
• Be compliant to all demands set by the perpetrator.
• Do not make eye contact with the hijacker.  He may perceive this behavior as a threat and retaliate aggressively.
• Keep your hands still and visible to the hijacker, so as to give him assurance of your passive content.
• Do not speak too fast (if you are able to talk) and do not make sudden movements.
• Gather as much information as possible without posing a threat.
  • How many people?
  • How many firearms and description thereof?
  • What were the perpetrators wearing (clothing)?
  • To which direction did they drive off?
  • Take note of the language they use (the accent).
• First phone the SA Police Service on 08600 10111.  They will dispatch the medical services if needed.  Other emergency numbers you could phone are 112 ANY Network (Vodacom+MTN+Cell C) or 147 Vodacom ONLY.
• Activate the vehicle-tracking device, if the vehicle is fitted with one.

• Re-experiencing the event– a feeling that you are experiencing the original event all over again, through memories intruding into your waking or sleeping life.
   
• Arousal reactions– you feel persistently aroused, nervous, agitated sense, anxious, tense, unable to settle or concentrate, over-reacting very sharply to small things and especially, having trouble sleeping.
   
• Avoidance reactions– you make frantic efforts to avoid anything that could remind you of the trauma, or cause you to think or talk about it in any way.  You may shut down your feelings about other people and things you normally care about and keep to yourself.  You may feel unusually withdrawn and emotionally numb.

• Denial
• Anger
• Bargaining
• Depression
• Acceptance

• Express your emotions.
• Talk about what has happened as often as you need to.  Seek trauma counselling.
• Try to keep your life as normal as possible by following daily routines.
• Find opportunities to review the experience.
• Look to friends and colleagues for support.

• Use alcohol, nicotine or other drugs to hide your feelings.
• Simply stay away from work or isolate yourself.  Seek help and support instead (counselling).
• Allow anger and irritability to mask your feelings.
• Hide your feelings and be afraid to ask for help.
• Think your feelings are a sign of weakness.

Introduction and Importance of Safe Steering

In discussions about road safety, not much emphasis is placed on the safe steering of a vehicle. As this is often regarded as a “common sense” activity we seldom pay enough attention to the skills required to perform this safely!

Steering safely is a fundamental skill we learn when studying how to drive, and is perhaps the skill that most people associate with operating a vehicle.

Cars are designed to run straight on a level or even slightly cambered road. This means that, if you let go of the steering wheel on a level road, the car should continue in a straight line for some distance before gradually veering to the left, because of the natural road camber

Because it looks really simple, many drivers often pay no importance to steering safely. But don’t make that mistake; virtually all the other driving skills like parking, cornering, and overtaking rely heavily on one’s ability to steer in a fluid but precise manner. Many fatal head-on collisions are directly related to our failure to steer our vehicles safely!

In this section we would like to investigate how we can improve the ability to safely steer our vehicles in traffic!

Vehicle Maintenance and Safe Steering

To steer a vehicle requires not only the right technique and skills – but also roadworthiness of the vehicle and effective response from various vehicle components.

What are these vehicle components?

Vehicle components and factors which may affect steering include the following:

• Steering gear ratio and back lash: The steering gear provides mechanical advantage for the driver to guide the vehicle by exerting only a small amount of physical effort at the steering wheel.
   
• Steering linkage connection: They must provide free movement of the linkage to transmit driver’s effort at the steering wheel to the knuckles. If there is more play in the joints, most of the efforts shall be going waste and if there is less play, hard steering would result in.
   
• Type pressure: It should be as per specifications. Less or uneven pressure of air in the wheels shall result in hard steering and more tyre pressure shall lead to wobbling.
   
• Play in wheel bearings: The wheel bearing should be properly adjusted. Less play shall result in hard steering and more play shall effect wheel alignment and lead to wheel wander.
   
• Condition of king pins and bearings: The front portion vehicle load acts through the pins. If the pins are tight in the bushes, hard steering shall result in and if there is more play, wheel alignment shall be affected, which has great influence on the steering operation.
   
• Wheel alignment: this relates to the relative position of wheels for obtaining a true and free rolling movement over the road. The smooth operation of steering depends much upon the wheel alignment.
   
• Shock absorbers: Shock absorbers are filled with oil, which hydraulically dampen the suspension and prevent the wheels from bouncing. Due to this action, tyre-to-road contact is maintained over bumps and undulations. This in turn allows control of the vehicle to be maintained.

How can I diagnose what is wrong with the steering of my vehicle?

The best advice is to monitor how your vehicle steers on an open stretch of road. Check for the following:

• If the car wanders slightly from side to side during the test it may be due to incorrect, or uneven, wheel alignment, loose steering gear, or an uneven load.
   
• If the vehicle starts to deviate to one side the moment you let go of the wheel, it may be due to a major difference in tyre pressure between the left and right sides, improper rear wheel tracking, tyres not the same size, or a broken or sagged spring. It may also be a result of any of the faults mentioned in the previous paragraph.
   
• If you take a sharp corner and the steering wheel is reluctant to return to the straight-ahead position, or the steering requires too much effort, this may be due to low tyre pressure, binding steering linkages, damaged suspension arms, incorrectly adjusted steering gear or sagging front springs. A power-steering system might have a low fluid level, a defective pump, a sticky valve spool, a loose belt, or a kinked or clogged hose.
   
• If the steering wheel has excessive play, it will also have excessive kickback. This may be due to worn or loose steering linkages, a worn or badly adjusted steering box or improperly adjusted front-wheel bearings. Air in a power steering system could also result in excessive play.
   
• Tyre squeal on corners is usually due to low tyre pressure, but can also be caused by incorrect toe or camber.

Safety Advice: Have the ball joints on your steering system checked often. If you detect an oil leak on your vehicle, let somebody have a look at it, it might be your power steering fluid leaking. Although it is possible to steer a vehicle with the power steering not working, a sudden loss of power steering might be interpreted as a steering which do not respond.

Power Assisted Steering and Road Safety

Many older drivers learnt to drive before power assisted steering became the well-known feature in our modern cars. Nowadays few new vehicle owners will not insist on having power steering. But what is power steering?

Wikipedia has provided a brief summary:

Power steering helps the driver of a vehicle to steer by directing some of its power to assist in swivelling the steered road wheels about their steering axes. As vehicles have become heavier and switched to front wheel drive, particularly using negative offset geometry, along with increases in tire width and diameter, the effort needed to turn the wheels about their steering axis has increased, often to the point where major physical exertion would be needed were it not for power assistance. To alleviate this auto makers have developed power steering systems: or more correctly power-assisted steering—on road going vehicles there has to be a mechanical linkage as a fail-safe. There are two types of power steering systems; hydraulic and electric/electronic. A hydraulic-electric hybrid system is also possible.

A hydraulic power steering (HPS) uses hydraulic pressure supplied by an engine-driven pump to assist the motion of turning the steering wheel. Electric power steering (EPS) is more efficient than the hydraulic power steering, since the electric power steering motor only needs to provide assistance when the steering wheel is turned, whereas the hydraulic pump must run constantly.

In EPS, the amount of assistance is easily tuneable to the vehicle type, road speed, and even driver preference. An added benefit is the elimination of environmental hazard posed by leakage and disposal of hydraulic power steering fluid. In addition, electrical assistance is not lost when the engine fails or stalls, whereas hydraulic assistance stops working if the engine stops, making the steering doubly heavy as the driver must now turn not only the very heavy steering—without any help—but also the power-assistance system itself.

Driver Advice on Steering Safely

To steer the vehicle safely literally rests in both hands of the driver! A driver never knows when an emergency may arise and you owe it to yourself, the other passengers in your vehicle, and pedestrians as well as all the other drivers on the road to keep those hands on the wheel and get a grip on safe driving and safe steering!

We would like to provide a few suggestions to enhance safety:

• To have complete control of the car, the driver must be sitting in the correct comfortable position in relation to his size.
   
• Adjust your seat so that you may rest your hands comfortably on the steering wheel. Sitting too far back will force you to stretch your arms out that they’d tire easily, while sitting too near will leave little space for your arms to move—a dangerous situation when faced with challenging driving conditions.
   
• Challenging driver conditions would also include driving in strong wind, wet road surfaces etc.
   
• Always keep your eyes on the road, and hands on the wheel. Do not get distracted!
   
• Don’t forget to use your turn signals.
   
• When turning, your hand which is in the direction you are going should pull down while the other hand allows the wheel to pass through. When driving on rough terrain, the other hand can help by pushing the wheel upward to steer safely.
   
• Avoid crossing your arms over one another, as this limits your ability to adjust quickly.
   
• When transferring from one lane to another, or when pulling in after overtaking, the turn should be gradual and never a sudden swerve which may result in skidding.

Holding the Steering Wheel and Steering Safety

The positioning of the hands on the steering wheel is of the utmost importance for safe driving – and especially so when the driver has to respond in an emergency situation.

To effectively control your vehicle you must place both hands firmly on the steering wheel either in the 10&2 o'clock position or at 9&3 o'clock.  And of course any position between those two would be a safe place to keep your hands.  

We would like to share some very important insights from our Road Safety friends at Drive and Stay Alive. Drive and Stay Alive has urged drivers to ignore the latest fad for holding the steering wheel at the eight o'clock and four o'clock positions.

Some so-called experts are recommending 8 & 4 on the basis that it reduces the chance of injury if a collision occurs and the driver's airbag fires but this is highly inadvisable as it creates much more danger than it might eliminate.

It is perfectly true that the number of arm injuries has increased since the advent of airbags, but there are two very important points to be made:

1. Holding the wheel at "8 & 4" not only encourages lazy driving, with the arms resting on the driver's thighs or lap, but it also significantly reduces a driver's ability to steer accurately and swiftly in the event of an emergency. Why else would the "10 & 2" or "9 & 3" positions have been recommended for so many decades in the first place?
   
   Surely it is vastly preferable that a driver is able to respond accurately and promptly and thereby avoid a crash than it is to compromise this ability in the interests of possibly reducing arm injuries after a crash?
    
2. The aforementioned increase in arm injuries (and related facial injuries, when the arms are smashed into a driver's face by an expanding airbag) is undoubtedly exacerbated by widespread use, in the USA, of "hand over" steering techniques (known elsewhere as crossing the arms).  If the "push pull" (a.k.a. "shuffle") steering method is used instead of "hand over," then the chances of a driver getting one or even both arms smashed into his/her face by an airbag are reduced dramatically.

But the main thing is that avoiding a crash by holding and using the steering wheel properly is vastly preferable to having a crash while hopefully minimizing any arm injuries -- what about injuries to the rest of your body, to your passengers, and to other people on the road if you have a crash that could have been avoided? (That unhindered airbag isn't going to save everybody!)

Over Steer v Under Steer

What is referred to as Over Steering and Under Steering?

Under steer: The condition when, during cornering the vehicle continues, or tries to continue, in a straight line because the front tyres have reached the limit of their adhesion before the back tyres have.

Over steer: This is the opposite of under steer in that it is the rear of the vehicle that slides out when the limit of adhesion is reached while the front tyres are still gripping the road.           

Driver Distractions and Safe Steering

You cannot control a car unless you have BOTH hands on the wheel. If you do not have those hands on the steering wheel you are not a safe driver!  Accidents happen in milliseconds and you need to be prepared in the event of an emergency.

For example, say you are driving down the road and a child runs out in front of you.  Your reaction is to swerve out of the way and avoid that child.  If you happen to be driving with your knees or a finger or even just one hand, it will be impossible for you to safely turn the wheel.  By the time you have put both hands on the wheel you will have already run over the poor child or lost control of your vehicle!

In South Africa where 30-40% of road fatalities are pedestrian deaths it is even more important to be alert at all times. We need to avoid driver distractions and anything that might deter us from having both hands on the steering wheel! This would include conversations while holding the cellular phone, texting while driving, eating etc.

Conclusion

Remain alert and vigilant on the roads at all times. If you believe that your vehicle is not steering 100% the manner it should rather consult with an expert!

Also view:

Vehicle Maintenance, Repair and Road Safety

Shock Absorbers and Safety on the Road

Wheel Balance, Wheel Alignment and Road Safety

Avoiding Distractions while Driving

Road Safety and Tyre Safety

Introduction

Many people know the horror of fatal accidents on our roads. Of the 10 thousand killed every year, more than 40% are pedestrians. Drivers MUST avoid pedestrians - though they are the least regulated or controlled of road users. They are the most difficult to persuade into safer road conduct. Neither the law, nor protective measures built onto our roads seem able to make impression.

Statistics show:

• It is important to be visible at night
• Alcohol must be avoided

On the other hand, pedestrians can misjudge the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles. A misunderstanding or non - adherence to basic rules of the road can lead to crashes.

Part 1: Pavements

You And The Law

The law states that where there is a pavement, no pedestrian should walk in the roadway. Pedestrians are advised to use pavements where available.

1. The Road To Safety Strategy

It is a strategic document of the National Department of Transport which mandates a set of coordinated actions that the Department will begin to lay secure foundations for law compliance, responsibility and mutual respect on South Africa's roads. It focuses on creating systems and structures that work, and enforcement and adjudication measures that will bite. The strategy identify six interlocking and overlapping focal areas requiring intervention in terms of both systems and structures and one of the six areas is Pedestrian safety and fitness [ safer road usage by pedestrians]

2. Where There Are No Pavements

Where there is no pavement, walk as far as possible to the right -hand side of the road , facing oncoming traffic. You are surely out of the way and can see vehicles long before they are close to you. You cannot be surprised by something coming up behind you - and if anything looks dangerous, you have enough time to step even further away from the road.

3. Sharing Pavement Space

When you use the pavement, remember to share the space with others. If other pedestrians have to step around you into the street - perhaps because you're chatting to friends or shopping on the street, you could cause them to be involved in an accident. How would you feel if you caused someone's injury or death?

Part 2: Street Crossing

1. Crossing

Many pedestrians are killed or injured by crossing the road carelessly. There is one simple rule

Always Stop And Look Before You Cross

• Look right, left and Right again for oncoming traffic.
• Cross only when the road is clear, looking in both directions and listening for oncoming traffic while crossing
• When you cross, walk briskly but don't run

2. Crossing at a Bus / Taxi Stop

When you intend crossing the street at a bus/ taxi stop, make sure that the straight section of the road you choose is clear of packed or stationary vehicles(which blocks your view). They will block your view of fast moving traffic that might not see you approaching on time.

3. Controlled Crossing

Controlled crossings are the safest places to cross the street. Children in particular are safer when they are in the company of parents or adults who show them how to cross the street.

4. Crossing At Traffic Lights

Controlled crossings can also be at intersections with traffic lights or "robots".

• Keep between the solid white lines and watch for moving vehicles
• Cross briskly to avoid being run over by impatient motorists
• Beware of drivers turning where they are crossing
• Beware of drivers and cross carefully when the light is green
• Do not cross when is red. Only cross when the green man shows and when it is safe to do so.
• When the red man appears while you are in the middle of the road / street, continue crossing; but when you are still on the pavement, do not cross at all.

Most intersections have traffic lights which all road users - both motorists and pedestrians - have to obey.

• Do not cross when the light is red.
• Do not cross when the light shows amber / yellow.
• Cross when the light is green and if it is safe to do so.

5. Crossing Where There Is No Marking

Where there is no special place to cross, such as in rural areas, look for a straight stretch of road away from sharp bends or anything that blocks your view such as bushes, hills, slopes or rises. When you cross, you must be able to see clearly in both directions.

6. Pedestrian Bridges

Pedestrian Facilities such as pedestrian bridges are safe to use when crossing a busy road or a freeway. No pedestrian is allowed on a freeway. Where there are no pedestrian bridges ensure that you only cross when it is safe to do so. Keep on looking in both directions while crossing.

7. See And Be Seen

"See and Be Seen" is always the rule for crossing the street. This means that crossing suddenly in front of, behind or from between parked vehicles can get you killed. Watch what is happening. Establish eye contact with drivers passing parked or stationary vehicles where you want to cross. Make sure that they can see you - then take all the usual precautions before crossing the road. Never run across, and always cross in a straight line rather than crossing diagonally. Remember, the straightest is the shortest. Crossing at an angle means you are on the road for longer than necessary - and at greater risk of being hit. Jay-walking, which is how some pedestrians choose to take chances by crossing the street, between intersections and through moving traffic, is extremely dangerous. Even if you are super-alert, traffic moves faster than you - and you will be involved in an accident. Vehicles suddenly coming out of concealed driveways are always a danger if you are unobservant on the pavement. Always stop and look - EXPECT vehicles to drive out of driveways - especially when your view is obstructed by big walls or high objects like trucks or buses.

8. Crossing At A Marked Pedestrian Crossing

You are always safer at a marked pedestrian crossing, but even then, do not expect drivers to stop for you. They may not notice you or not watching properly. Always remember to stop, look for turning vehicles from ahead and behind you and make sure the traffic has stopped before you start crossing. Keep a good look out all the time. Never run - walk briskly.

Part 3: Visibility

1. See And Be Seen

Wear white or light coloured clothing at night. In areas where there are no street lights motorists cannot see you. You can also make yourself more visible to traffic by carrying a white object in you hand. Where there is no pavement, walk as far as possible to the right-hand side, facing oncoming traffic. Do not walk on the left side of the road because it is not safe and avoid the above actions all the time when you are walking on the road. In this way you will see traffic approaching and you will be able to take action should motorists not see you or steer to avoid you. In rainy weather, carrying an open umbrella makes it difficult for you to see vehicles. To be safe, look everywhere, all the time.

Part 4: Alcohol and Drugs

1. Alcohol Affects All Parts of the Brain

Alcohol affects every part of the brain. So do most drugs. What you see and what you think you see become totally different things. Even ordinary movements, like getting up and walking, become difficult and hazardous. You are not in control of what you do - or of what is happening around you.

2. If You Have Been Drinking

If you have been drinking or taking drugs or medication, do not drive or walk on the road. Stay over where you are, get a lift, take a taxi home or ask someone who has not been drinking to take you home. It could save a life. Probably yours. Do not drink and walk.

3. Vision And Reaction Time

Alcohol has a negative effect on your co-ordination, hearing, sight and ability to judge speed and distance of oncoming vehicles.

4. No Quick Remedy to Sober Up

A lot of people believe that taking a cold shower, drinking black coffee, exposure to cold air or exercising can sober you up quickly. These are all untrue. The only safe and sure way to sober up is by sleeping. If you choose to drink, remember to eat sufficient food before and in-between your drinks. This at least slows down the effects of alcohol. Do not drink and walk.

Safety Commandments

• Don't Speed
• Don't Drink and Drive or Walk
• Don't Overload
• Wear your Seatbelt
• Ensure Driver and Vehicle Fitness
• Promote Pedestrian Safety

Also View:

• Pedestrian Safety Manual
• Running / Jogging and Road Safety
• Walking in Traffic
• Pedestrian Safety Advice
• Road Safety & Pedestrian distractions while walking in traffic
• Avoiding Pedestrians

Introduction:

Most motorists have at some stage seen spark plugs in vehicles – but apart from the obvious “spark” they need to provide few are aware of exactly how it works and why it is important for safety on the road.

Spark plugs have a central role in the car functioning as the car depends on them for starting and running. The car spark plugs ignite the engine's gas mixture, providing the car with power and maintaining it functioning. They are an important part of the ignition and engine system and it is important that they are always in good shape.

In this section we would like to look at spark plugs a bit closer and, with the assistance of our Road Safety Partner AutoZone share some frequently asked questions about spark plugs and the answers thereto.

Definition:

 A spark plug is a device for delivering electric current from an ignition system to the combustion chamber of a spark-ignition engine to ignite the compressed fuel/air mixture by an electric spark, while containing combustion pressure within the engine.

A spark plug has a metal threaded shell, electrically isolated from a central electrode by a porcelain insulator. The central electrode, which may contain a resistor, is connected by a heavily insulated wire to the output terminal of an ignition coil or magneto. The spark plug's metal shell is screwed into the engine's cylinder head and thus electrically grounded. The central electrode protrudes through the porcelain insulator into the combustion chamber, forming one or more spark gaps between the inner end of the central electrode and usually one or more protuberances or structures attached to the inner end of the threaded shell and designated the "side", "earth", or "ground" electrode(s). [Wikipedia]

Which Spark Plugs do I need and when do I replace them?

Different driving conditions resulting in different temperatures in the combustion chamber will require spark plugs of different heat ranges. Fortunately a spark plug that meets most driving conditions for the average passenger vehicle has already been identified by the manufacturer of your vehicle.

The car owner's manual provides important information on when to check each car part. This may also give an indication of when to replace spark plugs. 

 If the ignition or any other car areas related to the spark plugs functioning is not working properly then you should check them as well. If you are wishing to replace them yourself, you should make sure you know how and have not only the proper knowledge for it but also the right tools. You should avoid trying to replace the car spark plugs unless you are sure you know how to do it.

The car spark plugs can be replaced easily and in a few moments by someone who knows how to do it. In new cars, the spark plugs are usually controlled by the car computer and this allows checking them and tuning them much more easily than in older cars.

It remains good advice to check spark plugs after the 10.000 kilometres or around such date since they can stop functioning at any time since then. They may last much longer but it is best to avoid any nasty surprises on the road by checking them regularly.

Question raised with AutoZone/ NGK Spark Plugs :

1. What does a spark plug do?

Answer:

It serves as a lighter to ignite the air/fuel mixture under extreme conditions. A spark plug must dissipate the heat produced by the combustion gases.

Voltage

It withstands high voltages between 20 000 V - 30 000 V.

Temperature

It withstands repeated cycles between normal operating temperatures 400ºC to 800ºC and 2500ºC

Chemicals

It withstands chemical corrosion caused by fuel and combustion gases

Pressure

It withstands pressure of 50kg/cm squared.

2. What do the numbers on the spark plug mean?

Answer:

The numbers indicate the heat rating system. The heat rating is a measure of the amount of heat dissipation. Selecting a spark plug with the proper heat range will ensure that the tip will maintain a temperature high enough to prevent fouling yet be cool enough to prevent pre-ignition.

Hot types for low speeds

• It has a large surface exposed to the combustion gases.
• It dissipates heat slowly.
• The firing end heats up quickly.

Cold types for high speeds

• It has a smaller surface exposed to the combustion gases.
• It dissipates heat quickly
• The firing end does not heat up quickly.

Memo

It is essential to use a spark plug that fits a specific engine and its conditions of use.

When the wrong heat rating is selected

• When the heat rating is too high:

The spark plug temperature remains too low and causes deposits to build up on the firing end; the deposits provide an electrical leakage path that gives rise to loss of sparks.

• When the heat rating is too low:

The spark plug temperature rises too high and induces abnormal combustion (pre-ignition); this leads to melting of the spark plug electrodes as well as piston seizure and erosion.

Click here to view the video on heat ratings

3. What does the 'R' stand for?

Answer:

Resistor. The spark plug incorporates a ceramic resistor of 5K ohms to suppress ignition noise generated during sparking.

Features

• It removes noises which may interfere with car radios, mobile communications and cellular phones.
• It also prevents the incorrect operation of electronic fuel injection control systems.

Memo

As the resistor spark plug has an incorporated resistor, some people think that it has adverse effects on the start-up, acceleration, fuel economy and emissions. However, this is wrong. It does not effect engine performance so don’t hesitate to use it.

4. Why does my spark plug leak?

Answer:

It does not leak. The stain on the ceramic is caused by the oil particles suspended in the air that adhere to the surface of the insulator due to the high voltage. It does not affect the spark plug’s performance in any way.

5. What makes up a spark plug?

Answer:

6. How does one fit a spark plug?

Answer:

Use the specified tightening torque applicable to the spark plug.

Flat seat spark plugs with thread diameter of 18, 14, 12 and 10mm

• New plugs 1/2 - 3/4 turn (180° - 270°)
• Re-used 1/12 - 1/8 turn (30° - 45°)

Spark plugs with thread diameter of 8mm

• New plugs 1/3 turn (120°)
• Re-used 1/12 turn (30°)

7. How do you read a used spark plug?

Answer:

Different manufacturers have specified service intervals for their vehicle’s spark plugs.

Examples of problems caused by excessively long periods of use: • Worn out electrodes will have difficulty in sparking.

• Deposits accumulated on the firing end may induce abnormal combustion (pre-ignition), causing problems that include melting of the electrodes

For more information about NGK, visit the website...www.ngksparkplugs.co.za

Also View:

• Vehicle maintenance and safety guide to roadworthiness of vehicles
• Installing Spark Plugs