Holiday Road Safety Tips for December Driving
As we prepare for the December adventures ahead, it is paramount that we prioritise our safety and the safety of our loved ones on the road. From ensuring our vehicles are in top-notch condition, planning our routes meticulously, to packing emergency kits and staying vigilant while driving - every step is crucial. It's not just about reaching our destination; it's about making wonderful memories along the way, safely. For this week's article, we've compiled essential holiday road safety tips to guide you through your December travels. And to ensure your vehicle is up to the journey, remember to bring it in for a DEKRA Technical Inspection - your best bet for a safe, secure, and absolutely fantastic holiday road trip!
1. Get Your Vehicle Checked Before You Go
Before you even think about packing those bags, you've gotta make sure your car is as ready for the holiday as you are. Having your vehicle checked before setting out on your next road trip is a crucial step and one you cannot afford to skip.
Lucky for you, you don't have to examine your car yourself. DEKRA's Technical Inspection is a comprehensive vehicle assessment conducted by certified experts to ensure that every part of your vehicle, from the engine and brakes to the lights and tires, meets the highest safety and performance standards.
Image credit: Sebastian Staines on Unsplash
2. Plan Your Route and Take Breaks
Embarking on a road trip without a clear plan is a bit like setting sail without a compass - you might eventually get where you're going, but you're in for a bumpy ride! That's why mapping out your route before you hit the roads is absolutely crucial. Familiarise yourself with the directions, jot down some key landmarks, and pinpoint the perfect pitstop spots where you can stretch your legs and grab a bite.
Taking regular breaks is not just good for your sanity; it's a road must on our holiday road safety tips list. Driving for long stretches can lead to fatigue, and trust us, our beautiful South African landscapes are best enjoyed when you're alert and energised. Aim to take a break every two hours or so, and use this time to refuel, rehydrate, and maybe snap a few pics of the stunning scenery. By planning your route and taking regular breaks, you're setting yourself up for a safer, more enjoyable journey.
Read: Plan the Ultimate Scenic December Holiday: 5 Route Suggestions
3. Stay Alert and Pay Attention to Your Surroundings
Once you're on the road, it's absolutely vital to keep your wits about you and stay alert. Our roads are as diverse as our cultures, meaning one minute you could be navigating a bustling city street, and the next, you're on a winding rural road with unpredictable conditions. Paying attention to your surroundings is key. Keep an eye out for other vehicles, pedestrians, and the occasional wildlife that might decide to make an appearance.
December holidays mean increased traffic, and with that comes a higher risk of accidents. Avoid distractions like your phone, and if you're feeling tired, pull over at a safe spot to rest or switch drivers if possible. Remember, the goal is to create memorable holiday stories, not scary road trip tales.
4. Buckle Up and Secure Your Load
Buckling up is a non-negotiable holiday road safety tip, and insisting on this is the easiest way to protect yourself and your loved ones. Every single person in the car needs to strap in, and if you've got little ones on board, ensure they're snug in the appropriate car seats. South African roads can be unpredictable, and you want to be prepared for any sudden stops or sharp turns.
Image credit: Sara Garnica on Unsplash
When it comes to your luggage, if your holiday gear includes a roof rack or a trailer, double-check that everything is securely fastened. The last thing you want is for your belongings to become hazardous objects on the road. We've all seen those horror stories of unsecured loads causing accidents, so let's not add to the statistics. A few extra minutes making sure everything is tight and secure can make all the difference.
Read: Ensure Child Safety in a Car for the Upcoming Holidays
5. Drive with Care: Watch Your Speed and Keep a Safe Following Distance
Our roads can be tricky, with sudden curves, changes in elevation, and unexpected obstacles (we're looking at you, potholes). That's why it's crucial to stick to the speed limits and adjust your pace according to the road conditions. And hey, what's the rush? You're on holiday now! Remember to also keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you. Aim for a gap of at least two seconds. This gives you ample time to react if they suddenly hit the brakes or swerve.
As far as holiday road safety tips go, driving with care is not just about protecting yourself and your passengers; it's about contributing to safer roads for everyone. So, ease off the gas, keep your distance, and let's make this a smooth journey for all.
6. Be aware of your surroundings
Navigating the bustling streets and open roads of South Africa requires a keen sense of awareness and an attentive mindset. It's not just about watching the car in front of you; it's about taking in the entire scene - from pedestrians stepping onto the road, to cyclists navigating through traffic, and even wildlife making unexpected appearances in more rural areas.
During the holidays, our roads become even more lively and unpredictable with holidaymakers eagerly making their way to their destinations. This means you've got to have your head in the game and your eyes constantly scanning the environment. Pay attention to road signs, watch out for roadworks, and be mindful of other drivers who might not be paying as much attention to the road as they should be.
7. Be Weather Wise
Being weather-wise is crucial when you're road tripping across our beautiful country. Make sure your vehicle is equipped to handle all types of weather by checking that your tyres have sufficient tread for wet roads, and ensure your windscreen wipers are in good working order. Remember, when the rain starts pouring down, reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and turn on your headlights to improve visibility.
On those hot, sunny days, check your vehicle's relevant liquid levels, stay hydrated, take breaks to cool down, and keep an eye out for any signs of heat exhaustion. Understanding and respecting the power of Mother Nature ensures that you stay safe on the roads, come rain or shine.
Read: Weather-Related Driving Hazards: How to Stay Safe on the Road
8. Pack an Emergency Kit
Before you hit the road, there's one more crucial thing to tick off your checklist... Packing an emergency kit for your car. Stock up on essentials like bottled water, non-perishable snacks, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight with extra batteries. Don't forget the practical stuff too - a spare tyre, jumper cables, and basic tools can be a lifesaver if you find yourself in a pickle.
It might not be a bad idea to throw in a blanket, a raincoat, and even a map for those areas where your GPS might bail on you. Having an emergency kit on hand can turn a potential holiday disaster into a minor road trip hiccup.
As we wrap up our guide holiday road safety tips and joyous road trip this December, let's recap the essentials: check your vehicle, plan your route, stay alert, buckle up, drive carefully, be aware of your surroundings, be weather-wise, and pack an emergency kit. Each of these steps plays a crucial role in safeguarding your journey this festive season. But, the cornerstone of all our tips? Ensuring your vehicle is in prime condition. Don't leave it up to chance; make the wise decision to bring your vehicle in for a DEKRA Technical Inspection. Let our experts give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your car is ready for the road, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable holiday memories. Safe travels, and see you on the road!
