Top tips to plan a road trip this festive season

THE holiday period usually sees more vehicles on the roads than usual, and road safety becomes a major challenge during this time.

ALSO READ: How to go on a road trip with your dog

During December and January, many travel to holiday destinations or return home to their families. The South African National Roads Agency (SOC) Limited (Sanral) shared advice for people planning road trips.

Get ready for the journey

• Obey the rules of the road and carry your driver’s licence with you.

• Plan your route and give yourself enough time to travel to your destination.

• Use a GPS navigation tool, or a road atlas, to plan your trip in advance.

• For peace of mind, try to stick to major routes or toll roads. If you are going to travel on back roads, make sure you know the towns along the route and the distances between them.

• Do not get stranded without fuel. Plan where you will refuel on your trip.

• Plan rest stops along the way. If you are travelling with children, tell them when and where you will be stopping.

Vehicle fitness

• Make sure your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before a long journey.

• Take your vehicle for a full check before going on holiday.

• All lights and indicators, windscreen wipers, brakes, steering, the exhaust system and tyres should be carefully examined for faults.

• Check your shock absorbers.

• Do not overload your vehicle.

Driver fitness

• Have a good rest before you embark on your journey.

• Take a safety break every two hours or every 200km.

• Do not drink and drive. If you intend to consume alcohol, make alternative arrangements so you will not be behind the wheel.

• Remain alert at all times. Avoid distractions such as cellular conversations or texting.

• Make sure you and your passengers are always wearing a seat belt. South African law requires everyone in a motor vehicle to use seatbelts. It is the driver’s responsibility to make sure all passengers are strapped in for the duration of the journey.

Be prepared for emergencies

• Have numbers for roadside assistance and other emergency services close at hand or saved on your cell phone.

• Keep essential roadside equipment with you, as many breakdowns are caused by relatively minor problems. Equipment should include a first aid kit, a tow rope, warning triangles, a torch and a fire extinguisher.

Know your emergency numbers

• Police: 10111

• Fire: 10177

• Netcare 911: 082 911

• ER24: 084 124

• Cellphone emergency: 112

Share these suggestions with family and friends.

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