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Holiday Vehicle Safety Checklist

───   07:00 Tue, 12 Dec 2017

Holiday Vehicle Safety Checklist  | News Article

Nothing can spoil your carefully laid out holiday plans like an unexpected vehicle breakdown. Reduce this risk by being prepared to take to the road.


Consider this pre-holiday vehicle checklist from Netstar that will help you reach your destination safely.




Vehicle Safety Checklist

  • Wheels And Tyres - Inspect your tyres to make sure that there is enough tread and that they are wearing evenly. Check tyre pressure – including the spare – and make sure you have all the necessary tools in case you need to change a tyre.
  • Brakes - It’s crucial that your brakes are working optimally, so replace worn brake pads and check that brake discs, drums and pads are all in a good condition.
  • Wipers And Windows - You never know what the weather will do on your trip, so test that your wipers are working properly. If your windows have chips or cracks – repair them – and fill your windscreen washer bottles with water.
  • Battery And Belts - You need your battery to be in top working condition, so clean the terminals and check that they’re fastened tightly. Your battery must be fitted securely in your vehicle. If your battery water levels are low, top up with distilled or purified water. Replace cracked or worn belts if necessary.
  • Lights And Electronics - Adjust your headlights if they aren’t in the proper position and check that all bulbs and fuses are working, especially if you’re towing a trailer or caravan, or you’ll be travelling at night. Test all switches including hazard lights, indicators and defoggers.
  • Filters And Fluids - All your filters (oil, air and fuel) must be clean and working efficiently. Check for any leaks and fill up fluids to the recommended levels, ensuring that all caps are securely fastened. Engine oil must be inspected and topped up if necessary.
  • Safety Checks - All the seatbelts must be working properly and you should have a basic first-aid kit in your boot, along with reflective triangles and a torch.
  • Other - Your car, trailer and driver’s licences must all be valid, and keep an up-to-date map in the vehicle or invest in a GPS. 

What to Do in the Event of an Accident

If you are involved in an accident, you need to ensure that you gather as much information from the accident scene as you can. FNB suggests keeping this list in your car to remind you of what you need to do, as this information will be critical when you submit a claim.


1. Stop the vehicle immediately.

2. Check yourself for any injuries before you check for injuries of others involved in the accident.

3. If anyone is injured, do what you can to help and then call emergency services.

Nationwide: dial 112 from cellphones only and you will be linked to your cell phone company's emergency call centre - even if you are out of airtime or the phone is locked. Private emergency response company Netcare911will respond to emergencies whether you are a member or not. Dial: 082 911. Nationwide medical emergency company ER24 Dial: 084124 See more at Health24 .

4. Check the nature and extent of damage to your and any other vehicles involved.
 
5. Contact your insurance Roadside Assistance if you need to have your car towed.

6. Take photos of the accident scene and damage to all cars from all angles.

7. Take note of the date, time and location of the accident.

8. Take note of the road conditions (eg, potholes or traffic lights out of order).

9. Take note of the weather.

10. Gather as much information as possible about all people involved and witnesses.

Find more safety checks at Wheels24 and how to navigate SA’s mountain passes.

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