License revocation: If you are stopped by the police and does the officer judge that you are physically or mentally incapable of driving safely, then they can revoke your driver’s license.
Well Rested
If you’re tired, your risk of having an accident increases fourfold. Fatigue can impact your driving ability, making you less alert, slower to react, and even capable of falling asleep at the wheel. Therefore, always ensure you are adequately rested before you drive. If you’re facing a long journey, allow for ample rest breaks and, if possible, share the driving with another licensed driver to share the load.
Physically and Mentally Prepared to Drive
It’s crucial to be physically and mentally prepared to drive safely. For instance, avoid driving if you have physical obstructions like a casked arm. Your mental fitness is equally important. If you’re experiencing mental health issues, maintaining focus could be challenging and it would be better to have someone else drive until you’re feeling up to it.
Whether you can drive with a certain physical or mental condition is not precisely stipulated. If you have a long-standing or chronic condition, the CBR may wish to assess your driving ability. The principle here is that you must be capable of driving safely and responsibly (refer to Article 5, the common rule: you may not pose a risk on the road and not impede others).
👀 You know your state of well-being better than anyone else. Hence, when you enter the car, always ask yourself: am I in a condition to drive safely and responsibly?
Distractions
Having your full attention while driving is essential for safety. However, numerous factors within and surrounding the car can distract you. These may involve operating the radio, conversing with passengers, observing outside events, momentarily losing thoughts, or entering a phone number on your screen.
Our brain can essentially focus on one thing at any given time. Therefore, it is critical in the car to concentrate on the road. To assist you with this, rules have been established concerning the use of one of the biggest distractions: the mobile phone.
Mobile Phone
MoNo campaign (Mobile No?)
In the Netherlands, you’re not allowed to drive with your cell phone in your hand. Even holding your mobile between ear and shoulder to make a call is prohibited.
However, using your phone in a holder (hands-free) for calls, texting or navigation is allowed. Yet, research indicates that hands-free activities can be just as risky because your attention shifts from driving to the phone.
This also applies to hands-free systems that allow you to use your voice to dial a number or play a song. The negative effects, including slower reaction times, swaying, and reduced traffic visibility are nearly identical. It’s evident that cell phone use and safe driving are incompatible. Distraction caused by smartphones has indeed become one of the leading causes of traffic accidents.
To resist the temptation of checking your cell phone while driving, consider turning it off. Alternatively, install an app that prevents disturbances while driving.