The end of year holidays are a time of great movement in the city, people are usually in a hurry buying gifts, visiting family and friends, or preparing their celebrations. All of these activities increase car trips and, unfortunately, also the risk of traffic accidents.
Recently, the Peruvian Association of Insurance Companies (APESEG) reported that, based on figures from the National Police of Peru (PNP), between January and September 2024, more than 64 thousand traffic accidents were recorded that caused the death of more of 2 thousand people on the roads.
In this regard, Natalia De Luca, Director of Automobiles at MAPFRE, highlights the importance of driving with caution and being aware of the specific risks that arise during this season. “December is a month of intense vehicular and pedestrian traffic, so it is essential to maintain caution while driving, plan routes in advance considering peak hours, and of course, always drive with the SOAT in force to be protected,” he states.
To take care of drivers, pedestrians and cyclists, the executive has also shared some road safety tips during the end-of-year holidays.
- Avoid driving tired: Many accidents occur due to lack of rest before a trip. Fatigue affects concentration and increases the risk of making mistakes while driving. It is essential to sleep between 7 and 8 hours and eat an adequate diet, avoiding heavy meals that can induce drowsiness.
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages if you are going to drive: According to the ESRA3 study, carried out in 2023 by the VIAS Institute with the collaboration of Fundación MAPFRE, 22% of car drivers in our country admitted to having driven under the influence of alcoholic beverages. If you have consumed alcohol, even in small quantities, it is best not to drive. Alcohol impairs brain functions, affecting judgment, reasoning ability and muscle coordination, essential skills for safe driving. “Remember that if you have consumed alcohol you can use your SOAT MAPFRE benefit and request a replacement driver,” says De Luca.
- Learn to drive in traffic congestion: Traffic jams in the city often cause rear-end collisions or side collisions when trying to change lanes. Drive very carefully using your mirrors to confirm the areas around your car. Also, do not forget to verify the validity and coverage of your Vehicle Insurance and your SOAT. Always have your insurance company’s number on hand, and if you suffer a crash, contact them immediately.
- Keep your car in optimal condition: Perform the necessary maintenance on your vehicle and check the condition of your tires, the brake and light system, and the oil and water level. Above all, if you are going on a long trip, put into practice all the safety recommendations for driving on the road.
By following these simple tips, we can help reduce traffic accidents and ensure that we can all enjoy a happy and trouble-free holiday. Remember, caution behind the wheel not only saves lives, but also allows us to get home to share with those we love most.
