Tips to avoid 'sat-nav' rage

SALES of satellite navigation (sat-nav) equipment reached bumper proportions this Christmas - raising concerns that record numbers of motorists face frustration and delay after straying into GPS 'black holes'.

Map24, the company that enables drivers to pre-plan their journeys safely on the Internet, has reiterated its simple ten-point guide to responsible navigation.

Last year saw several incidents involving the improper, inexperienced and inexplicable use of sat-nav systems, some laughable and others quite serious.  Cars, lorries, coaches, caravans and even ambulances all ended up in farcical situations.

Map24's Advice on Safe and Responsible Road Navigation is:

* Plan ahead especially for unfamiliar routes.  This is possible by using the Internet in the comfort of your home or office rather than risking too many decisions whilst driving.

* Always pay very close attention to road signs - even when using sat-nav.

* Listen to the radio for traffic updates.  If possible, plan ahead by programming local radio stations into your car radio - you will receive far more detailed traffic reports than those given on national radio station broadcasts.

* Leave plenty of time for your journey.  If you are unsure about how long it might take, check ahead first by plotting your journey on the Internet.

* Use common sense.  If the road that your sat nav is pointing to looks as if it could present problems, eg a single track road with few passing points, then seek an alternative third or fourth route - even if it's longer. 

* Be prepared to switch off the sat nav system and use a map or ask local people for directions

* If you have discovered an alternative route on a regular journey (to work, for instance) be considerate of the local people and environment.  If it takes you through a village and past a busy school, for example, be prepared to take the longer route if you feel that it's safer for the children. 

* And finally, remember: it's better to arrive late than not at all!

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