The recently released World’s Best Drivers Index 2025 from Compare the Market confirms what many South Africans suspect: our roads are among the riskiest in the world. According to Compare the Market’s study completed in Australia, South Africa is the fourth riskiest country to drive in out of the 56 countries tracked in the index. High road deaths (17.9 per 100,000 people), below average road infrastructure quality and high levels of congestion are among the factors that make our streets and highways among the most dangerous to navigate.
Says Ernest North, co-founder of Naked, the car and home insurance platform: “The study from Compare the Market underlines that drivers should be ready for the unexpected on our roads. Unpredictable drivers, potholed roads and thundershowers are just a few of the factors that make driving in South Africa so interesting. There are many ways to reduce these risks and empower yourself, from defensive driving techniques to getting appropriate insurance cover.”
To help South Africans navigate these risks, North shares 10 safe driving tips:
- Drive with awareness: You can’t predict or control how other people drive, so be alert on the roads. Maintain a safe following distance, keep checking your mirrors, and try to stay away from people who look like they’re driving dangerously.
- Don’t drink and drive: The legal blood alcohol limit is currently 0.05% and just one drink can put you over the limit. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect your reaction times on the road. It’s best to stay safe and avoid alcohol completely when you’re driving.
- Speed limits are not a target: Not only should you obey the speed limit at all times, you should also adjust your speed to road conditions. Take it easy when roads are wet, visibility is poor or traffic is heavy.
- Keep your car in roadworthy condition: A well maintained car will help you to stay safer on the roads. Ensure your tyres have sufficient tread depth and are inflated to the correct pressure. Regularly check that your brake pads, windscreen wipers and indicators are in good condition.
- Take breaks on longer trips: Exhausted drivers are more likely to cause accidents or have preventable crashes. Stop for at least 15 minutes every two hours or swap drivers on long trips to stay alert.
- Don’t overload your car: Exceeding your vehicle’s load limits can lead to tyre damage, reduced braking effectiveness, and compromised control. Stick to weight and size limits for roof racks and other storage equipment.
- Buckle up: Wearing seatbelts reduces the risk of serious injury for drivers and passengers. Ensure any children in your car are strapped into car seats or boosters that are right for their size and weight.
- Plan your route: Heavy traffic, impatient drivers, crime hotspots and potholes are among the challenges you may encounter when driving. Plan your journeys to avoid damaged stretches, especially during or after storms. Also avoid driving during peak traffic when possible.
- Stay alert to crime risks. Hijackings and smash-and-grabs remain a reality. Stay vigilant and keep valuables out of sight, especially when stopped at traffic lights or navigating crime hotspots.
- Be especially careful during night-time travel: Driving at night can be dangerous, especially on unfamiliar or poorly lit roads. Lower visibility, higher numbers of drunk or tired drivers, and increased criminal activity add to the risk.
“You might be a safe and careful driver, but dangerous road conditions and careless road users mean that you can’t always avoid accidents. Insurance is there to protect you when things go wrong,” says North. “Most claims are linked to accidents, which account for the bulk of repair and replacement costs. The right cover also protects you against theft, hijacking, pothole damage and third-party liability. Many households are under financial pressure, but appropriate car insurance is well worth the money. It is a safety net that cushions you against unexpected costs and losses that could otherwise derail your finances.”
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While studying to be a CA, Nicholas Bell developed a merchandising app for SAB (South African Breweries), once he built one solution, he quickly acquired more clients and by the time he was preparing to do his articles, SAB gave him a three-year deal as part of their merchandising programme. At 22, while still living with his parents, his first business comprising four people had a turnover of R700 000. By the second year, turnover grew to R1.6 million. After six years, his turnover was R21 million, he employed 25 people with clients including Simba, Harmony, ArcelorMittal, SAB, and Sibanye Gold. Eight years later, Bell hit R100 million, then pivoted the business to ensure they couldn\’t be disrupted. He implemented an investor-led strategy, which will see the business doing 40% of its work offshore with a R500 million turnover in five years.