Charm School for Drivers launches in Joburg

Europcar CEO, Dawn Nathan-Jones.

Zavi Stein, general marketing manager of Europcar says, "Negligent, careless driving increases frustration and aggression on our already busy roads and affects the safety of road users and this is a major concern. With this campaign, we hope to make people think about their driving etiquette and be more courteous and considerate on the roads."

According to a recent road traffic report, compiled by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the four main factors that cause accidents are human, vehicle, roadway and the environment. A massive 82.85% of fatal accidents were attributed to the human factor, which includes unsafe and illegal overtaking manoeuvres or lane changes, poor judgement, fatigue, excessive speed, disobeying traffic signs and signals, driving under the influence of alcohol and general recklessness and negligence.

"Acknowledging fellow drivers"

"We as South Africans have a responsibility to make our roads a safer and friendlier place. If all drivers abide by the rules of the road, avoid taking risks, and practice small courteous gestures, such as giving way to fellow drivers, saying thank you with a smile or a wave, and acknowledging fellow drivers with friendly eye contact, the roads will be a more harmonious place," he continues.

"Busy roads and rush hour traffic is here to stay, especially in a country that hasn't bought in to flexi working hours, where public transport systems are only now being established but will take some time to roll out, and where carpooling is not yet a popular trend. Drivers should accept this graciously and treat other commuters with respect and courtesy. It is possible to reduce stress and frustration on the roads, but it takes united action from all South Africans.

Leading up to the event in Johannesburg on 13 August, South Africans are invited to nominate a friend or family member, who could benefit from a refresher course in driving etiquette. The five winning candidates chosen to attend the course will each win a free luxury chauffeur for a day and their nominators will each win a 2-day weekend car rental.

For more information, go to the Charm School tab on http://www.facebook.com/KWVWines?ref=ts#!/gowithgreen