By: Natasha Archary
As South Africans prepare for the Easter long weekend, motorists are urged to stay safe on the roads which are expected to be busy.
With people planning on making a trip home or towards the annual Easter pilgrimage, there are calls for people to take it easy and not rush to get to their destinations.
Every year, the Easter long weekend brings fatal accidents and road safety into the spotlight.
If you’re planning a trip away for the Easter long weekend, ensure your vehicle is fit for the long distance journey, especially preparing for a drive in unfavourable weather conditions.
Arrive Alive and SAPS have already launched different operations in various areas as part of the Launch of the Easter Weekend Arrive Alive Campaign.
Make the following checks before your long weekend trip
Tyre maintenance: Ensure that wheel alignment and balancing have been carried out, that tyres are in a good condition, that the tyre tread is within legal limits and that your tyre pressure is according to the specifications of the manufacturer. Don’t forget to check your spare wheel.
Windscreen and wiper check: Ensure that your windscreen is free of cracks and stone chips, which can influence your visibility. Your front and rear wipers should be in a good working order to clear rain and debris from the glass. Remember to fill up your windscreen wash.
Book that service: To avoid the inconvenience and expense of a mechanical breakdown, it’s a good idea to stick to the service intervals as prescribed by your vehicle manufacturer. Ensure the service station checks your brakes as well.
Check lights, vehicle coolant levels, and for any leaks.
Stock your emergency supply: Invest in a first-aid kit to help you deal with road trip headaches like motion sickness and small cuts. A torch, glow-in-the-dark triangles and plenty of water and wet wipes are always handy things to carry with you in the car.
Also read: Keeping your vehicle safe this festive season
Plan your journey
Decide beforehand which routes to take and which spots you will use as rest stops. Don’t try to cover too much distance in one day as driver fatigue increases the risk of an accident.
Use apps such as Google maps to plan your routes and to see where the most congested areas are.
Share the responsibility of driving so that you can take turns driving long distances.
Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol which will impair the ability to stay focused on the roads.
Always wear a safety belt and make sure all the passengers in the vehicle do too.
Don’t overload your vehicle and keep a safe following distance throughout your drive.
Also read: Pay before you fill up! Garages taking firm stance as more drivers leave before paying for fuel
