Drive safely, even on empty roads

The coronavirus lockdown has resulted in a significant drop in business mileage, and congestion is down by as much as 90%[i]. Empty roads can cause drivers to feel more relaxed and their concentration can lapse. Needless to say, this increases the safety risks. At times like these, it is important to be even more careful than usual behind the wheel. Here are our tips for what to watch out for:

You always need to look and listen for emergency vehicles, but especially during this health crisis when there may be more of them on the road. Always pull over safely or give way to police cars, ambulances and fire engines.

The coronavirus measures require pedestrians and cyclists to keep a safe distance from others, and they may unexpectedly swerve or step into the road as a result. Keep an eye out for them at all times, and especially at night or during bad weather when visibility is reduced.

It is essential to have both hands on the steering wheel to respond promptly and effectively to any incident. Holding a mobile phone while driving is illegal, plus it is a dangerous distraction which impairs alertness and reaction times. Drivers typically have less than a half second to avert an accident, so any delay in perceiving and processing information can be fatal.

It can be tempting to make the most of the lack of traffic and put your foot down! But speed limits are valid at all times, so you should obey them even when the roads are quiet. Needless to say, you should also take weather conditions and special speed restrictions (e.g. in the case of roadworks) into account.

Distance is an important factor in preventing road accidents. Remember that the safe distance between you and the vehicle in front depends on the current conditions; when driving at a higher speed or in poor weather, the vehicle will require a greater distance to stop safely. As a rule of thumb: a car travels three times further after braking in wet conditions than on a dry road.

As a result of the coronavirus measures you must maintain a safe distance from others, and that includes after a road accident. If you are involved in a damage-only collision, try to avoid physical contact with the third party. Ideally, take photos of the damage and exchange details via your smartphone. As always, call the LeasePlan Driver Service Line for guidance.

In the case of a collision that involves bodily injuries, the first priority is the immediate safety of everyone involved. However, don't move the injured. Call the local emergency services and provide first aid if possible. Warn other road users about the accident using your hazard lights and an emergency triangle.

Safe driving, including during these unprecedented times, results in fewer accidents and reduces fatalities and bodily injuries. It lowers damage costs and ensures continuation of essential work. At LeasePlan, we aim to make our customer and employee fleets among the safest in the industry. We are working in partnership with customers, drivers and road safety specialists to raise awareness of the issue of fleet safety. Through our account managers and fleet consultants, we offer practical solutions and expertise to help prevent avoidable accidents. For example, our dedicated 'Active Prevention' programme helps corporates measurably reduce their fleet’s accident frequency rate. This programme forms part of our 3D Coverage insurance proposition, which is available across all countries, and is based on a phased approach tailored to each customer's specific circumstances.

[i] source: Flitsmeister; average data for Netherlands and Belgium