How to avoid whiplash

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20 January 2012

Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive is offering weekly motoring tips to drivers from its head of training, Simon Elstow. This week he is advising on how to avoid whiplash:

  • Keep a good distance in front of you so that you can slow down gently when you need to.
  • Except in an emergency, always look in the mirror before braking. Knowing what the car behind is doing is the best way to avoid getting hit from behind.
  • Make sure you have a properly adjusted head restraint. The top of the head restraint should be level with the top of your head for maximum safety.
  • Anticipate the traffic ahead and drive to avoid stopping as often – slowing down earlier gives the driver behind more time to react
  • Try and signal early for junctions to give time for the traffic behind you to react.
  • Keep your foot lightly on the footbrake as traffic approaches from behind to show brake lights as a warning, until you are sure it is stopping.

Elstow said: “The rise in whiplash compensation claims is driving up car insurance. Avoid injury and a hit to your insurance premium by following the above advice.”

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Notes to editors:

  1. drivingadvice.org.uk
  1. IAM Drive & Survive is a commercial subsidiary of the IAM and promotes occupational driver skills and safety for vehicle fleets businesses. IAM Drive & Survive helps employers achieve their duty of care to employees and reduce road accidents while driving on business. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycle riding and cycling.  The IAM has more than 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses.  Our policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.
  2. For information about IAM Drive & Survive phone 0870 120 2910 or visit http://www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

Media contacts:

IAM Drive & Survive Press Office – 020 8996 9777

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