Tips for driving with a satnav and arriving safely at your destination

When we go on a trip, we are used to following the directions of the satnav, a feature that is very useful when travelling. Although it is a handy and practical co-pilot, there are several things we need to keep in mind in order to follow its instructions while driving with complete safety. It is a service that, despite showing us the way to go, does not have a very user-friendly interface and requires some attention when setting it up. So we are going to give you some tips to use it in a smart, practical and safe way.

Programming the destination before setting off or at a stop

It may seem very obvious, but many drivers decide to start driving and program the satnav while the car is in motion. This is a very serious mistake that can cost a 200 euro fine and the loss of three points on your licence. If you are travelling at 120 km/h on a motorway, in three seconds you cover 100 metres without being aware of what is happening on the road. This can cause rear-end collisions or leaving the road, almost without the driver realising, with all the serious problems that may result. Use stops to make any changes to the route.

Placing the satnav in the right position

The satnav must be mounted in a suitable place. That is, it must not reduce the driver’s visibility and must be secured in an approved holder, to prevent it from falling and causing distractions. In addition, it must not be placed over the airbag, as it may block its operation or cause the driver to be struck in a way that eliminates the effectiveness of this useful safety system. Furthermore, the fine for mounting it improperly amounts to 200 euros.

Turning off the satnav’s manual controls and following voice instructions

Satnavs have the option to transmit instructions by voice, so there is no need to divert your attention from the road to look at the screen. With voice guidance there is no need to be distracted. Also, by disabling manual operation of the satnav, you avoid the temptation to change the route and be distracted at the wheel.

Storing and protecting the satnav when leaving the car

This is not only to prevent passers-by from seeing it and wanting to take it, but it is also important that it is not exposed directly to the sun. In summer it may be subjected to high temperatures, but if it is kept out of direct sunlight, you can prevent this from causing serious damage to the satnav’s systems.

With these simple tips, you will be able to use the satnav in a useful, practical and above all safe way, without having to regret any problems caused by improper use.

Source | ARVAL