KT for Good: What it takes to be a good driver

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KT for Good: What it takes to be a good driver

Dubai - Part 8 of our series tackles a four-point code of conduct that every motorist must observe.

By Ian Littlefield

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Published: Tue 22 Jan 2019, 9:26 PM

Being followed closely by drivers who flash their lights and gesture impatiently to get you out of their way; giving a signal, only to have another driver race to block your path; weaving your way through inconsiderately parked cars; and having horns blasted at you to move, before the lights have even changed to green - does any of these sound familiar? You've probably experienced one or all of these things on a regular basis if you live in Dubai. This competitive behaviour can be productive in the work environment or the sports arena, but when it comes to driving, it can cause problems.
Here are our four tips for staying safe on the road
> Be patient
Patience is one of the most important traits a driver can have. Heavy traffic, road construction, parking, and the actions of other drivers will test your patience on a daily basis, but remember that impatience can lead to aggression, bad decision-making and, ultimately, crashes. So the next time you're stuck in a jam or someone is behaving aggressively towards you, just take a deep breath, relax and let it go.
> Be considerate
Considerate drivers are careful not to cause inconvenience to others and always demonstrate good driving etiquette. They let people merge, stick to speed limits, give way to pedestrians, and use signals at the right time. On the flip side, they don't use the horn unless it's absolutely necessary, they don't tailgate and they don't double-park. If this sounds too much, remember that this kind of behaviour tends to bring positive responses from others, so these drivers are using positive vibes to control their environment in favour of safety.
> Be defensive
Defensive in this context applies to planning and anticipation. Use your skills as a driver to read what is happening around you (situational awareness), plan for the worst, and respond accordingly. Drivers who habitually scan the road environment will have the big picture of what is happening around them and can plan to avoid a developing hazard. Defensive drivers control their environment to their advantage, so if giving a signal causes others to speed up and stop you from changing lanes, why not slow down slightly as they arrive and move neatly and safely in behind them. It's not a race, it doesn't matter who is in front.
> Be knowledgeable
Studies suggest that driver education can reduce crashes and traffic violations, particularly among new drivers. Even those drivers who have been on the road for many years can benefit from brushing up on their skills. When we have been doing something for a long time, we can become complacent and skills may fade.
We, drivers, should recognise the personality traits that keep us safe and make them stronger by using them every day. Embrace your good behaviours by trying to actively manage everyday traffic situations. React positively to difficult situations and be a role model for those around you.

Be at your best behind the wheel
Dr Monica Gallant (Associate professor, SP Jain School of Global Management - Dubai)
In Dubai, we are lucky to have good roads, modern cars, and generally excellent driving conditions. On the other hand, these factors also increase the speed and danger of the roads requiring drivers to be more diligent and alert.
Anyone who drives has the responsibility to drive safely for their own protection and for all other drivers and pedestrians. I feel that it is particularly important to watch out for motorcycles, since a small incident with a motorcycle could have a very significant impact on the well-being of the driver.
On my morning commute to work, I love to listen to the radio. Not only does it keep me awake but it also provides me with interesting examples to share in my business classes. If I'm going on a longer journey, I try to car-pool so that I have someone to chat with and look after the navigation.
I don't like to be late, especially when I am scheduled to teach, so heavy traffic can create stress. That's why I tend to give myself plenty of time by leaving home early so that I can be sure to arrive on time.
Being healthy also means being a good driver because you have proper reflexes. I believe that if you are not feeling well, you should not drive. It is important to be able to concentrate fully, especially on Dubai's roads.
But a little bit of rain can create havoc on the roads in Dubai. Road surfaces can become slick and visibility is reduced, however, drivers don't tend to adapt well to these conditions. If possible, I avoid driving in these circumstances or, if not, I leave more space between vehicles and drive more cautiously.
The Dubai Police are very polite and helpful in case of traffic accidents, however, I would suggest to always take a personal photo of the damage to your car and any relevant documents or reports for insurance purposes. It is also good to have car insurance that covers a rental car so that you are not inconvenienced.
Overall, I find it amazing that drivers from all over the world with different rules, varying training methods, and diverse driving experiences can coexist on the roads of Dubai.
As we enjoy our diversity, let us also forge unity to keep the roads safe for everyone



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