Keep safe on the road during the Easter traffic rush
It is a good idea to make sure that your vehicle is fit for the journey.
The Easter period is not only the perfect time to spend some quality time with loved ones and to forget about work for a moment; it is also one of the most dangerous times to travel.
South Africa’s roads will experience high volumes of traffic and those of our readers who are planning to take a well-deserved road trip should remember that safety measures start with their vehicles.
Federal-Mogul has put together a number of useful hints and tips for the news to help you to be safe on the road this Easter.
Bertie Steyn, Federal-Mogul technical advisor emphasises that it is of the utmost importance to do a vehicle point check before embarking on your journey.
“Before setting off on holiday, it is essential that a car’s tyres, brakes, oil, transmission fluid, wiper blades and all lights are checked. Any failure in these areas may have fatal consequences, simply as a result of being overlooked. The most effective way of ensuring peace of mind is to book a vehicle in for a safety inspection at a specialist centre,” he explains.
In tough economic times, going away for a short break already can prove costly, and many motorists may not be able to afford this service.
In this case, Steyn says, the driver can do personal safety inspections at home.
“It is important to ensure that all headlights and indicators are in working order, and that the engine has sufficient oil, coolant and brake fluid. Wiper blades must be in good working condition and the washer tank should be filled with an effective cleaning solution.”
Steyn adds that a home check also should include a thorough inspection of the spare wheel set to ensure that there are no missing components, while tyres and shock absorbers should be checked for wear and tear.
“If there is any damage to shock absorbers or tyres, the vehicle should be taken to a specialist fitment centre, as this will affect braking and performance.”
Although this may seem like an unforeseen expense, the cost is insignificant compared to the potentially catastrophic consequences of an accident. Steyn says that squeaky or ‘spongy-feeling’ brakes are telltale signs that the braking system must be checked.
“In this case it is advisable to take the vehicle to a specialist who can determine what action should be taken.”
April weather can be unpredictable, and it is important to slow down in rainy conditions, as it takes far longer to stop or adjust on wet roads.
Headlights always should be turned on. Other important aspects to consider during long-distance journeys is to abide by the speed limit, maintain a safe following distance behind other vehicles, and to take regular breaks at designated rest stops along the national road network.
