Road safety during the pandemic

With the gradual easing of restrictions, the chaotic Manila traffic is back!

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Instead of the peaceful and empty intersections, in its place is heavy traffic, harried drivers and commuters, and shorter tempers makes for the perfect setting for road accidents. 

Whether you’re going on a long or short drive, it’s wise to take extra precautions and drive defensively. An accident during the pandemic would be financially and emotionally draining given the healthcare situation.

Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy. Follow the BLOWBAGETS (Battery, Lights, Oil, Water, Brakes, Air, Gas, Engine, Tires, and Self) rule before you hit the road. 

Plan your trip and allocate a reasonable travel time to relieve you of unwanted stress, help you keep a cool head, and prevent you from driving recklessly.  

Get extra protection with insurance.

A reliable safety net like Malayan Insurance’s AutoMaster protects you, your passengers, and others from the physical and financial aftermath of vehicular accidents.

It also has CAMILLE (Call Malayan Insurance Live Line), a free roadside assistance program for policyholders that provides emergency towing if your car breaks down due to mechanical problems or encounters an accident. 

Being on the go also increases your exposure to COVID-19. A six-in-one protection like Vital Cover with COVID-19 Cover shields you from its financial burden. For as low as P130, you can get financial support if you fall ill of COVID-19, and reimburse accident-related expenses.

Back on the road, don’t let anything steal your attention while behind the wheel. Your To-Do list, loud chitchats, rowdy passengers, sending texts, or online calls can distract you. Remember, once you’re in the driver’s seat, driving becomes your main priority. 

Make a stopover for long drives, or better yet, get a substitute driver to take over before you get tired. The act of staying alert, analyzing road situations, making quick decisions, and the physical rigors of steering a 1,300-kg car can take a toll on drivers.

Don’t let your guard down when you’re on the road. Better safe than sorry. The country’s leading non-life insurer, Malayan Insurance, has a full range of products that can secure yourself and those you care about for any eventuality.