Important Road Safety Message

Important Road Safety Messages on Safely Exiting a Vehicle from SDCC. Safely exiting a vehicle on public roads is a fundamental skill that can save lives and prevent accidents.

Hazard Lighting

When pulling over or stopping on a public road, you must always activate your vehicle hazard lights. Hazard lights alert other drivers that you are in a potentially hazardous situation, reducing the risk of collision. Make sure your hazard lights are functioning correctly and use them before exiting your vehicle. By following these essential guidelines and being prepared to expect the unexpected situations that can arise, you can contribute to a safer and more responsible road workplace environment for everyone. Stay Safe, Be Visible, Be Your Own Life Saver and always prioritise your well-being when exiting a vehicle on public roads. Emergency Services Call 112

Personal Visibility

It is best practice to wear a High Visibility Reflective vest or jacket when exiting your vehicle. This will make you more visible to other drivers and road users, reducing the chance of accidents. Always keep a high-vis jacket in your vehicle. By following these essential guidelines and being prepared to expect the unexpected situations that can arise, you can contribute to a safer and more responsible road workplace environment for everyone. Stay Safe, Be Visible, Be Your Own Life Saver and always prioritise your well-being when exiting a vehicle on public roads. Emergency Services Call 112

Safe Location

Choose a safe location to pull over and to exit your vehicle. Whenever possible, find a designated parking area, layby, or safe place to stop. If you must stop on the hard shoulder of the road, ensure it is wide enough and provides ample space for you and your vehicle. If you must exit your vehicle on the road, do so from the safety side of the vehicle, away from traffic, preferably the passenger side. By following these essential guidelines and being prepared to expect the unexpected situations that can arise, you can contribute to a safer and more responsible road workplace environment for everyone. Stay Safe, Be Visible, Be Your Own Life Saver and always prioritise your well-being when exiting a vehicle on public roads. Emergency Services Call 112

Traffic Awareness

Before exiting your vehicle, check your mirrors and look over your shoulder to assess the traffic around you. Ensure there are no approaching vehicles and be mindful of any Pedestrians, Cyclists or E-Scooter users  in the vicinity. By following these essential guidelines and being prepared to expect the unexpected situations that can arise, you can contribute to a safer and more responsible road workplace environment for everyone. Stay Safe, Be Visible, Be Your Own Life Saver and always prioritise your well-being when exiting a vehicle on public roads. Emergency Services Call 112

Emergency Vehicle Kit

Always carry an emergency kit in your vehicle. This kit should include items such as a first-aid kit, flashlight, warning triangle, and a high-visibility vest. Having these essentials can be a lifesaver in case of an emergency. In the case of an emergency, deploy warning devices like reflective triangles to warn oncoming traffic and help keep you safe. By following these essential guidelines and being prepared to expect the unexpected situations that can arise, you can contribute to a safer and more responsible road workplace environment for everyone. Stay Safe, Be Visible, Be Your Own Life Saver and always prioritise your well-being when exiting a vehicle on public roads. Emergency Services Call 112

Communication

Inform your organisation or family about your situation, especially if you are experiencing vehicle trouble or require assistance. Share your location and estimated arrival time to ensure that someone is aware of your whereabouts. Call rescue vehicles for assistance where and when required. By following these essential guidelines and being prepared to expect the unexpected situations that can arise, you can contribute to a safer and more responsible road workplace environment for everyone. Stay Safe, Be Visible, Be Your Own Life Saver and always prioritise your well-being when exiting a vehicle on public roads. Emergency Services Call 112

Training and Education

As the Driver of a vehicle, you must ensure that all your training and education is up to date. Carry out your daily walk around check prior to taking a vehicle out on the public road. Make sure to carry an ‘Accident Report Form’ in your glove box, should you be unfortunate enough to be involved in a road traffic collision. By following these essential guidelines and being prepared to expect the unexpected situations that can arise, you can contribute to a safer and more responsible road workplace environment for everyone. Stay Safe, Be Visible, Be Your Own Life Saver and always prioritise your well-being when exiting a vehicle on public roads. Emergency Services Call 112

Alighting on Motorways

Exiting a vehicle on a motorway/ public roadway, it is particularly dangerous due to high-speed and volume of traffic. If you must exit your vehicle on a motorway/ public road- way, pull over to the hard shoulder, activate hazard lights, and ensure all occupants exit the vehicle from the safe side of the vehicle/ passenger side, away from traffic. Keep a safe distance from your vehicle. If you must exit the vehicle on the motorway, stay behind the crash barrier. By following these essential guidelines and being prepared to expect the unexpected situations that can arise, you can contribute to a safer and more responsible road workplace environment for everyone. Stay Safe, Be Visible, Be Your Own Life Saver and always prioritise your well-being when exiting a vehicle on public roads. Emergency Services Call 112

Vehicle Recovery and Waiting for Help

In the event of a breakdown or accident, it is essential to wait for professional assistance, especially on busy roads. Stay away from your vehicle until help arrives, keep your hazard lights on. Use your phone to communicate with emergency services or a recovery service.

By following these essential guidelines and being prepared to expect the unexpected situations that can arise, you can contribute to a safer and more responsible road workplace environment for everyone. Stay Safe, Be Visible, Be Your Own Life Saver and always prioritise your well-being when exiting a vehicle on public roads. Emergency Services Call 112