IAM's safety tips for Easter away
Just in time for the long weekend drive this Easter, road safety charity the IAM is offering advice on preparing for a trip away over the Easter break. The motoring tips from the IAM post titled, "We're all going on a brummer holiday", come from Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger.
Rodger said: “Kids can be distracting and driving can be tiring. But taking some steps to prepare yourself and your vehicle before setting off on your much-deserved Easter break will mean you’ll have a far more enjoyable time getting there, and be better able to have a good break when you arrive.”
Besides the great tips above, please be sure to check the weather forecast before taking off, as it’s been reported that there may be more snow and icy conditions on the way over the Easter Holiday weekend.
To view more from the IAM and to read additional helpful tips, please click here.
- Check that all of your lights are working, that your tyres have enough tread, and that their pressures are correct, and fill up before you hit the motorway – fuel prices are higher on service areas.
- Try to carry as little unnecessary weight in your vehicle as this will increase fuel consumption. When loading your luggage in, make sure it is secure, that nothing is obstructing your view, and try to keep the people-space clear of clutter.
- The weather is highly unpredictable - make sure your washer fluid is topped up before you leave, and carry a cloth to give your headlamps and mirrors a quick clean if you need to. That will solve the problem of dead insects in the heat or salt spray in the cold.
- If you are taking kids with you, take something to keep them entertained while you concentrate on driving. Cordless games consoles and portable DVD players (with headphones!) are perfect for this.
- Plan the journey sensibly, so you are not hitting all the peak traffic queues – and also so you are not setting yourself unrealistic targets. You need to stop regularly for a drink and a few minutes out of the car. Plan enough time.
- If you start feeling drowsy while driving, pull over somewhere safe, drink some strong coffee and have a 20 minute nap to let the caffeine take effect. Sharing the driving is also a great option, if possible.
Rodger said: “Kids can be distracting and driving can be tiring. But taking some steps to prepare yourself and your vehicle before setting off on your much-deserved Easter break will mean you’ll have a far more enjoyable time getting there, and be better able to have a good break when you arrive.”
Besides the great tips above, please be sure to check the weather forecast before taking off, as it’s been reported that there may be more snow and icy conditions on the way over the Easter Holiday weekend.
To view more from the IAM and to read additional helpful tips, please click here.
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