It’s almost long weekend – and it will be a busy weekend on the roads. Make a list of these car safety tips from Continental and check it (twice) before your trip to make sure you and your family arrive safely at your destination.   

Follow these 10 road safety to make your Easter break safer and more enjoyable:

1. Inspect the condition of your tyres 

Your vehicle’s tyres need to be maintained properly and checked regularly to ensure that they are in good condition. Check for any cuts, cracks, bulges or damage from the countless hazards encountered when driving, including potholes and sharp debris well in advance and fix before going on the road.  

2. Don’t forget the spare tyre  

Check the condition and pressure of the vehicle’s spare tyre as well. If the vehicle is equipped with a mobility kit instead of a spare tyre, ensure that it is in proper working order before leaving for your destination.   

3. Maintain tyre pressure 

Maintaining the correct tyre pressures is essential, and this should be checked regularly at least every two weeks. Under-inflated tyres can negatively affect the vehicle’s handling, increase fuel consumption and wear. Over-inflated tyres will result in reduced grip, longer braking distances and significantly increased wear in the centre of the tyre. The tyre pressures must also be adjusted for unladen and laden operating conditions and should be checked when the tyres are cold. 

4. Do a road-worthy check on your trailer and caravan 

If you are towing a caravan or trailer, carefully inspect the condition of the tyres, and adjust the pressures correctly. Trailers and caravans often stand in the sun for long periods with little use, impacting the performance and lifespan of the tyres. 

5. Check the tread on your tyres  

The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm for tyres with tread wear indicators, or 1mm for tyres without this feature. If the tread is below the legal limit, it’s time to replace your tyres. Wet handling and braking performance are significantly impacted when the tread depth drops below 3mm, and is especially dangerous below 1.6mm, resulting in much longer stopping distances and a significantly higher risk of aquaplaning.  

6. Make sure your service is up to date 

An all-round technical check-up of your vehicle and trailer or caravan is advised before embarking on your trip. Items to be examined include oil and coolant levels, brakes, battery, lights, windscreen wipers and shock absorbers. You can either do this yourself or visit a vehicle service or fitment centre, such as BestDrive.  

7. Take regular rest stops 

In the rush to reach your holiday destination, many people drive long distances without stopping for a break. This results in fatigue and the increased likelihood of a collision. It is recommended to stop and have a break at least every two hours. If you’re tired, rather stop in a safe location and rest – after all, arriving late is better than not getting there at all. 

8. Be vigilant for pedestrians 

Almost half of South Africa’s road accident fatalities involve pedestrians. Accordingly, watch out for people crossing the road, especially at night. Pedestrians are advised to wear bright clothing, ideally with reflective fabric, when walking at night to improve their visibility to other road users. 

9. Safely pull off in an emergency  

If your vehicle breaks down during your journey, pull well off the road into the safest possible location, and place a warning triangle at least 50 metres behind your car to warn other motorists. Changing tyres or working on your car on the roadside verge is extremely dangerous, so exercise caution. 

10. Practice good driving behaviour 

Poor driving behaviour is a major contributing factor in road accidents. Mobile phone usage when driving has become one of the world’s leading causes of accidents, as it takes your attention and eyes off the road – often with tragic consequences. Avoid drinking when driving, as it severely impacts your vision, awareness and reaction times. Finally, showing a bit of patience and consideration for other road users goes a long way towards a peaceful, enjoyable and safe holiday for you and your family! 

Words: Continental Tyre SA
Images: Pexels 

Also read: Screen-free activities to keep your kids busy on the road