Essential pre-trip checks for safe holiday travels

As schools close and families across South Africa gear up for their much-anticipated end-of-year break, the roads are set to come alive with holidaymakers, business travellers, and families embarking on adventures. Whether heading to the coast, visiting friends and family inland, or moving goods for work, ensuring a safe journey begins long before you leave the driveway.

Dean Horn, Managing Director of Super Tyres, emphasises the importance of road safety, stating that "transport is not just about getting from point A to point B. It connects families, supports businesses, and keeps our economy moving." This sentiment underscores the communal responsibility of all drivers to prioritise safety.

At the heart of road safety is the condition of your vehicle's tyres. As Horn articulates, "Your tyres are the only part of the vehicle that touches the road, so their condition is directly linked to your safety." Hence, a quick pre-trip check is vital and can significantly affect the quality of your journey.

• Inspect Your Tyres: Before embarking on a long drive, closely examine each tyre for wear or damage. Pay attention to tread depth and check the condition of the sidewalls. Ensure that all tyres, including the spare, comply with the size and load specifications for your vehicle.
• Monitor Tyre Pressure: Maintaining correct tyre pressure is crucial, with both under-inflated and over-inflated tyres impairing handling and braking capabilities, while also increasing fuel consumption.
• Consider Tyre Age: Even if tyres appear to be in good condition, those older than five years may have degraded rubber which can compromise your grip on the road. Seek assistance from a tyre specialist to check the date codes if unsure.

In addition to managing tyre condition, drivers should also consider their personal well-being during the holiday rush. Fatigue is a significant contributor to road accidents, especially during long-distance driving amidst heavy holiday traffic. Horn advises planning your route in advance and allowing extra time for potential delays to avoid the temptation of speeding.

• Take regular breaks every two hours or 200 kilometres to stretch, hydrate, and rejuvenate.
• Maintain a safe following distance of at least three seconds, increasing this during the night or in inclement weather.
• Adhere to the speed limits, stay alert, and always buckle up.

Also, remember to be vigilant for pedestrians and animals, especially when driving in rural areas or at dusk and dawn. For businesses with a fleet on the road, conducting thorough pre-trip checks to ensure all vehicles are roadworthy allows for a more efficient and safe travel experience.

Beyond tyre checks, ensure your vehicle is in top shape by assessing fluid levels, lights, wipers, and brakes before setting off. If you sense any irregularities in your vehicle’s performance, such as excessive bouncing, vibrations, or pulling to one side, have your shocks and alignment inspected immediately.

"Good preparation creates peace of mind," Horn states, encouraging drivers not to leave these checks until the last minute. Engaging in small yet meaningful actions ahead of time can save you from frustrating roadside delays and unwanted stress during your journey.

As you embark on holiday preparations — including booking accommodations and packing — take a moment to ensure your vehicle is ready for the road ahead. With these simple pre-trip checks, you can help safeguard your loved ones as you focus on enjoying the much-deserved moments and cherished memories of this festive season.

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