Two separate crashes involving self-drive tourists were reported on the C14 route over the long weekend. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported in both incidents.
Ironically, both crashes happened at the same location, it being the low-water bridge in the Gaub Pass.
DRIVING ON GRAVEL ROADS IN NAMIBIA
Gravel roads are constantly changing and considered as "low-grip surface". When driving on gravel roads in Namibia, driving slowly is the key to a safe journey. This reduces the risk of losing traction when you stop, accelerate, or take a corner.
Always take into consideration the dust factor. PLEASE drive with the headlights on for increased visibility!
Guidelines:
▪︎ ALL OCCUPANTS in the vehicle must be restrained - BUCKLE-UP!
▪︎ Drive on the left side of the road.
▪︎ DON'T drive in the centre of the road when a vehicle is approaching. Keep to the left of the road a far and as safe possible.
▪︎ Minimize driving on the right side of the road because of extreme, adverse, or hazardous road conditions (e.g., bad corrugation, debris) on the left side of road. This can only be done when it is safe, when you are able to observe the road ahead clearly and as a last option.
▪︎ Ensure that your vehicle is 100% roadworthy before travelling on any gravel road - ensure that the spare tyre is in a good condition and taking an additional spare tyre with is not a bad idea.
▪︎ Keep both hands on the steering wheel and ensure a firm grip at all times
▪︎ Adhere to the speed limit - REMEMBER that the speed limit is normally 100 km/h on gravel roads unless otherwise indicated - REMEMBER that the speed limit is not a target.
▪︎ Adapt speed as per road conditions.
▪︎ Be aware of loose gravel & sand on road surface and protruding rock, especially while roadwork is in progress.
▪︎ Don't jerk or cause sudden movement on the steering wheel.
▪︎ Avoid sudden acceleration, deceleration, or harsh braking.
▪︎ Move to the left when a vehicle is busy overtaking.
▪︎ Monitor the mirror's regularly.
▪︎ Avoid driving in a dust cloud - rather reduce speed and maintain a proper safe following distance (200 - 300 meters advised).
▪︎ DON'T DRIVE IN CONVOY FORMAT and NEVER DRIVE IN THE DUST-TRAIL OF THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF YOU.
▪︎ If you are unable to see the road ahead clearly, reduce speed, and don't even consider overtaking.
▪︎ Reduce speed well ahead of any river crossings, a bend, or even a blind rise.
▪︎ Overtaking - ask yourself: DO I HAVE TO OVERTAKE? ONLY overtake when it is safe and you are able to observe the road ahead clearly. Remain to right side of road as far and safe possible and only return to the left side of road when it is safe for both you and the vehicle you are busy overtaking.
▪︎ Don't accelerate when a vehicle is busy overtaking you.
▪︎ For a smoother drive and better control, adapt tyre pressure as per road conditions.
▪︎ ALWAYS drive with the headlights on.
▪︎ Always move to the left when a vehicle is approaching, but in the same breath, keep a safe distance from the road edge.
▪︎ Monitor the dust trail of approaching vehicles.
▪︎ Never stop on the other side of a blind crest - if their is a need to stop, pull well off the road surface at a safe location.
▪︎ Road conditions change overnight due to high traffic volumes and weather conditions. Adapt driving habits accordingly.
▪︎ Always be on the lookout for game / animals on the road surface.
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