Ready to hit the road this festive season? Stay safe with these tips
Make sure your car is road-trip ready this holiday season. From checking wipers to knowing what to do in an emergency, these tips will keep you safe and stress-free on the road.
South Africa's festive season is also our rainy season, bringing busy and wet roads. If you're heading on a long road trip this December, it's essential that your car is ready for whatever the weather may have in store.
Get your car road-trip ready
Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is safe to be on the road. Vitality Drive members can book an Annual MultiPoint check at their nearest Tiger Wheel & Tyre branch or Sandton Discovery Drive Centre.
It costs R110 and makes sure your vehicle meets essential road safety standards (your tyres, windscreen wipers, lights, indicators, hazards, seatbelts, steering, hooter and shocks will be checked, as well as your car's service history). Passing the check means you'll earn 300 Vitality Drive points, valid for 12 months.
Check your wipers and tyres
Your wipers and tyres play a critical role in wet weather, and if either (or both) are not in tip-top shape, it's a safety hazard.
Wipers
Wiper blades are your first line of defence against poor visibility in heavy rain, and they wear out faster than most people realise. If your wipers squeak, leave streaks, judder across the windscreen or lift off during use, it's time to replace them.
If you're a Vitality Drive member, you can save up to 20% when you take your vehicle to your nearest Bosch Service Centre (they do everything from a holiday check and brake service to replacing wipers).
Tyres
Your tyres are the only part of your car that touches the road - making them especially important when that road is wet and slippery.
Worn tyres reduce grip and increase the risk of hydroplaning (when the tyres glide on top of the road's surface due to water, causing a loss of steering and brake control). Make sure that each tyre has adequate tread of at least 1 mm (ideally more), that your spare wheel is pumped and in good condition, and that you have all the tools to change a wheel.
If your tyres need replacing, head to your nearest Tiger Wheel & Tyre - Vitality Drive members get up to 20% off tyre purchases.
Know what to do in an emergency
Even with the best prep, life happens. Fortunately, Discovery Insure clients have access to 24/7 support for roadside assistance. Save the number - 0860 999 911 - in case your vehicle breaks down or you're in an accident.
Discovery Insure clients also have access to Impact Alert. If you're in a collision, the intelligent technology detects the impact and immediately sends help to your location if we can't get hold of you. Our advanced telematics also offers safety features like weather warnings, a vehicle panic button and the ability to find your vehicle in real time.
By taking a few proactive steps - like checking your tyres, replacing worn wipers and knowing who to call in an emergency - you can enjoy your road trip with peace of mind. Here's to the holidays, no matter the weather.
Get a quote with Discovery Insure today.
Sources:
https://www.discovery.co.za/corporate/good-driving-holiday-safety-tips
https://www.discovery.co.za/corporate/good-driving-stay-safe-with-bosch