By Mr Thomas Hwang

MOST Singaporean drivers are not familiar with foreign roads.

Indeed, Singaporeans in general are not used to driving on two-way roads without dividers and are also not good at driving in fog conditions, to give just a couple of examples.

As a result, those who embark on a self-drive holiday overseas may be caught unaware by unforeseen situations that could put them in harm's way.

Here is how they can make driving overseas a safer experience.

Invest in GPS

Tourist maps are usually not drawn to scale and may not reveal rough terrains that can delay a journey.

This may lead to drivers underestimating the distance involved, and being unprepared for unsealed roads, and sloping or slippery road surfaces.

It is best to invest in a global positioning system (GPS) and use it to plot routes in advance.

The GPS would be fairly accurate in advising you on actual travel distances. Plan routes based on one's driving abilities.

Avoid speeding

Speeding is the biggest problem among Singaporean drivers.

On Malaysian roads, Singapore drivers tend to drive close to the car in front of them on the fast lane, hoping to get right of way.

All the front driver needs to do is to tap his brakes and that will spell disaster for the Singaporean behind. We overtake very haphazardly, too.

Inflate tyres properly

I see many Singapore-registered cars with under-inflated tyres. I have had the experience of renting cars with flat spare tyres, and have also been unlucky enough to get flat tyres when travelling in remote places on several occasions.

Drivers should never take for granted the most important part of the car that separates passengers from the road surface.

Be courteous on roads

Road courtesy seems to be nonexistent among the majority of Singapore drivers who hog the fast lane.

Other drivers then have to overtake from the wrong side of the road, endangering all road users. The failure to use car indicators is among some of the inconsiderate driving habits we take with us anywhere.

Avoid rushing to book accommodation

Booking accommodation in advance then having an ambitious driving plan to get there is probably one of the biggest killers of Singaporeans holidaying overseas.

After stopping at scenic locations along a particular travel route and taking more time than planned at each pit stop, the Singaporean driver may find that he still has a long way to drive to reach the hotel, at which he booked a room for the night.

With sunset drawing near, he speeds up along unfamiliar roads to try to reach the hotel before dark. This endangers him and his passengers.

I have learnt to avoid booking accommodation in advance for this reason. Wouldn't it be better to look for accommodation at the next pit stop if one is tired, or stay the night at whichever town that is interesting? If one checks in after 5pm, one can even ask for a discount.

Most motels in developed countries have rooms even during the Christmas season so, relax, and drive safely.