There is something special about driving in South Africa. One minute you are zipping through the city, the next you are winding your way through mountain passes or cruising past sun-drenched coastlines. But while the scenery changes, one thing should stay constant: safety behind the wheel.

Whether you are booking a car to get to a business meeting, a family wedding, or your next bush adventure, a bit of preparation goes a long way. At First Car Rental, we have got your back with reliable vehicles and expert service. There are also a few things you can do to make sure your ride is as safe as it is enjoyable.

Here is your ultimate First Car Rental Guide for Safe Rides. These simple tips will help you hit the road with confidence, wherever you are headed.

Power up your phone (and stay connected)

We live in an always-on world, and when it comes to road safety, that is a good thing.

Before you drive:

• Make sure your phone is fully charged.
• Pack your car charger or power bank, especially for long trips.
• Download offline maps in case you hit a dead zone with no signal.
• Store important numbers: First Car Rental emergency line, roadside assistance, local police, and family contacts.

Your phone is more than a playlist machine. It is your GPS, your lifeline in an emergency, and your link to updated traffic and weather alerts.

Do your pre-drive check

First Car Rental vehicles are regularly serviced and checked, but it is still worth giving your car a quick once-over before pulling off:

• Check that the tyres are in good condition and properly inflated.
• Confirm that all lights (headlights, indicators, brake lights) are working.
• Adjust your seat and mirrors for optimal visibility.
• Know whether the car takes petrol or diesel, and top up if needed.

It is a quick habit that can save you time, money, and unnecessary stops later.

Know your route and your stops

A little pre-trip planning makes for a much smoother drive:

• Map out your route ahead of time, even if you are relying on GPS.
• Check for roadworks, closures, or major traffic delays.
• If driving long distances, plan for regular rest stops. It is not just about comfort, it is also about avoiding fatigue.
• Identify safe, well-lit places to stop if you need a break, especially at night.

Remember, driving tired is as dangerous as driving drunk. Take those breaks!

Obey the rules of the road (always)

This one might sound obvious, but many accidents happen because of simple lapses:

• Stick to speed limits, especially in urban areas where pedestrians and cyclists may cross unexpectedly.
• Keep a safe following distance. Do not tailgate, even if the car in front is slow.
• Use your indicators and always check blind spots before changing lanes.
• Keep your lights on when visibility is poor. Many South African roads do not have street lighting.

And if you are renting a car in a province you are not used to, take a moment to familiarise yourself with local driving patterns. For example, highway driving around Gauteng can be fast and aggressive, while rural roads in the Eastern Cape often have livestock or potholes to contend with. Stay alert and adapt your driving accordingly.

"Z:\00_ADD_WORK5\First Car Rental\Blogs_July_2025\First Car Rental_Guide for Safe Rides Blog.docx"Stay alert to changing conditions

South Africa’s beauty often comes with unpredictable weather and road conditions:

• In wet weather, slow down, especially on highways where aquaplaning can happen.
• Watch for animals on rural roads, especially near game reserves or farms.
• Be cautious on gravel roads or pothole-ridden surfaces. Reduce speed and drive smoothly.
• If visibility is poor (fog, mist, dust), switch on your lights and drive at a speed where you can stop safely if needed.

If a situation feels unsafe, it is okay to pull over in a secure spot and wait it out.

Avoid distractions

Distracted driving is a growing concern worldwide:

• Do not text or scroll while driving.
• Keep calls hands-free and short.
• Set your music, podcast or navigation before you depart, not while on the move.
• Keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Your passengers and Instagram followers can wait. Focused driving saves lives.

Be security savvy

Sadly, opportunistic crime is a reality in many parts of South Africa. A few simple habits help you stay safer:

• Always lock your doors and keep valuables out of sight.
• Be wary of staged breakdowns or scams on quieter roads. Rather call First Car Rental or roadside assistance if unsure.
• If something feels off, drive to a well-lit, populated area before stopping.
• Avoid picking up hitchhikers, even if they look harmless.

Trust your gut. When in doubt, keep moving.

Know who to call

Lastly, always have help within reach:

• Save First Car Rental’s 24/7 emergency line and roadside assistance number.
• Know the national emergency number: 10111 for SAPS, 112 from your mobile phone.
• Share your trip details and estimated arrival time with a trusted friend or family member.

Drive smart. Drive safe. Drive First.

A little preparation, a little awareness, and a lot of common sense go a long way on South African roads.

At First Car Rental, we believe great journeys start with great safety habits. So next time you collect your rental keys, take these simple tips along for the ride. You will drive with more peace of mind and more time to enjoy the adventure.

First for service. First for safety. First for you.