Read our tips for first-time long-distance travellers

The festive season is in full swing, meaning many South Africans are taking to the roads to enjoy their holidays in neighbouring provinces.

For many matric learners and students, this might be the first time.

Here are helpful tips from the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) to ensure young travellers are prepared for the journey while giving parents peace of mind.

Get your car checked
Visit an RMI-accredited workshop or vehicle testing centre for a vehicle safety check.

These checks focus on critical components like tyres, brakes and windscreen wipers to ensure your vehicle is in a safe driving condition.

Taking this precaution will give you peace of mind and reduce the risk of unexpected issues on the road. Even with the best preparations, accidents and breakdowns can happen.

Here’s what to do in the event of an accident:
• Bring your car safely to a stop, stay calm, switch on your hazard lights and assess the surroundings.

• Check for injuries and seek immediate medical support if necessary. Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

• Before moving any vehicles, take photos of the accident scene and the cars involved, including their license plates and discs. It is advisable to take these from a metre or two away and close up.

• Wait for the authorities to arrive.

• Ensure you understand your insurer’s requirements regarding any admissions of guilt or negligence at the accident scene.

• Report the accident to the nearest police station within 24 hours or as soon as possible if you were injured and needed medical care.

• Notify your insurer, even if you do not plan to claim.

• Collect details like names, ID numbers, licence disc details, driver’s license and contact and insurance details from all the parties involved.

• Note accident specifics like location, time and road conditions.

• Document observations like other drivers’ behaviour or traffic violations.

• Always confirm that your insurer authorises towing services or that you signed a quotation for towing and storage fees if uninsured.

• Ensure your medical aid information is easily available should you need medical help.

• Contact details of next of kin (ICE contacts) must also be easily available in case you cannot provide them.

Reporting accidents online via the NaTIS
Ipeleng Mabusela, the RMI CEO of strategy and corporate support, says you can report minor accidents using the NaTIS website.

With this service, motorists do not have to report bumper bashings at a local SAPS office in person.

“This service is legally binding if terms and conditions are met,” he said.

“Minor crashes must be reported within 24 hours of the incident or the next working day. A crash report number will be generated automatically for insurance purposes.”

He further says that accidents causing injuries, fatalities, hit-and-runs, or involving five or more vehicles must be reported to the nearest police station.

“Using the NaTIS system is free, but charges may apply for data access in the future. The information you submit can be made available to your insurance service provider upon request.”

Handling a breakdown
• Move your car off the road if it is safe and turn on the hazard lights.

• Place a warning triangle a safe distance behind your vehicle to alert other drivers.

• Call for roadside assistance or the nearest accredited RMI member for professional help. To find an accredited workshop near you, visit www.rmi.org.za

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