As the countdown to your summer holiday begins, ensuring road safety is paramount. GEM Motoring Assist provides invaluable tips to keep you and your travel companions safe on the road.
With the school term ending in England and Wales, millions of vehicles will soon hit the roads, heading to holiday spots, airports, and ferry terminals as the summer travel season ramps up, notes GEM.
James Luckhurst, GEM’s head of road safety, remarked, “We all want our holiday to start the moment we close the front door and set off. By ensuring we’re fit to drive, in a well-maintained car on a well-planned route, we’ll be doing our bit to reduce stress and danger.”
GEM offers these essential tips for safer, more enjoyable holiday journeys.
Planning
Transform a long journey into an adventure by mapping out a suitable route and selecting interesting stops along the way. Utilize navigation apps with real-time traffic updates to minimize delays and avoid congestion.
Fatigue
Long drives in hot weather can be exhausting. Stay alert by scheduling regular breaks (at least every two hours) and keeping hydrated. Don’t succumb to the pressure of reaching a distant destination if you’re tired—stop and rest.
Weather
Extreme heat places additional stress on your battery, engine, and tires. Reduce sun glare by keeping your windshield clean, and use rear-seat sun blinds to keep children comfortable. Seek shady parking spots, but be mindful that the shade may not last all day.
Alcohol
Approximately 25% of the 20,000+ annual fatalities on European roads are alcohol-related. More drink drivers are arrested during the summer months than any other time. If you need to drive, avoid alcohol entirely.
Medicines
Ensure you have enough medication for the entire trip, considering potential delays. Stick to your medication schedule, but be aware of any side effects (such as fatigue) that might impair your driving ability.
Mechanical: A well-maintained car significantly reduces the risk of breakdowns. Before departing, check your tire pressures and tread depths, fluid levels, battery, and brakes. Make sure you have appropriate breakdown cover to handle any unforeseen issues.
