Safety Suggestions
The Two Second Rule
When following another vehicle, make a mental note of when it passes a stationary marker, for instance a building or utility pole, then start counting. An accurate count method is saying ‘one thousand one, one thousand two’. If you reach the marker object before two seconds pass, then you are following too closely. The ‘two second rule’ is taught in various driving courses, including the Police Driving School. Following too closely is a major, and avoidable cause of accidents on Bahamian roads.

Emergency Vehicles
When giving way to Emergency Vehicles it is mandatory that you pull onto the side of the road immediately, except when at an intersection or opposite an obstruction in the road. Be sure to leave enough room for the Emergency Vehicle to pass.

Driving At Night
Remember when driving at night to ensure that your car windows are clean inside and out. Interior lights also affect vision; it is recommended that they are kept to a minimum. To avoid accidents dip your headlights when oncoming traffic approaches and to reduce speed if dazzled by the lights of another vehicle.

Traffic Lights
The sequence of Bahamian traffic lights are red to green, green to amber and amber to red. Amber lights also mean to stop at the stop line; however, if you are already past the stop line when encountering an amber light continue on so as not to cause an accident.

Driving Habits
Positioning
Keep both hands on the steering wheel in the ‘ten to two’ position. Other positions can prevent you from reacting in a timely fashion in emergency situation.

Courtesy
Stopping in the middle of the road is not acceptable driving behavior. If you need to stop, pull to the side of the road to avoid blocking other drivers.

Bicycles
Don’t ride bikes in the night without the lights, it is extremely dangerous. Riding without helmets and other protective gear can also be deadly.

Seat Belts
Children under 12 are required by law to be restrained in the backseat with seat belts. All other passengers are mandated to wear seatbelts.

Speed Limit
The speed limit in The Bahamas is 30 miles per hour.

Drinking and Drug Use
Not only do you endanger yourself and passengers when you drive under the influence, you also endanger the lives of other drivers.

Precautions
Tyres
Regularly check the pressure of your tyres. When tyres are too soft they are susceptible to punctures and when too hard sustain rapid wear and tear. The ideal time to check your tyres is early in the morning or late at night. If you are unsure of your ideal tyre pressure, most modern vehicles have the proper pressure printed on either the inside of the door frame or on the edge of the drivers door. Also remember to look out for tears and cracks.

Horns
Horns are very important as they warn others of possible danger. Be careful of how and when you use your horn. Saying hello to a friend or honking because you are frustrated is not what the horn is used for.

Rear View Mirrors
Think about this, police drivers trained in The Bahamas are advised to check their rear view mirrors in intervals of eight to ten seconds. How often do you check your rear view mirrors?

Visibility
Using too much detergent can leave soapy film on your windshield. A crumpled old piece of newspaper (printers ink helps to cut through grease on glass) is ideal for cleaning your car’s windows. Remember to clean both the front and back windshields.