Summer months in Australia always spell family trips to different destinations. Australian summer, needless to say, is a fun-filled season for families that want to take a breather from busy life and for those who just want to unwind for a while.
While summer season is still several months away, keeping yourself ready and aware of some driving safety tips is never out of the season. When it comes to driving, safety should always be your number one priority.
Photo @ exploreaustralia.net.au
Just Before You Leave
Before unleashing your car and taking your car along long, extended summer trips, ask yourself if it have been subjected to manufacturer recommended periodic maintenance services? Have you tuned your engine up? Have you changed the engine oil and checked on the oil levels? Are your car’s battery still in top condition? Have you rotated the tyres yet? Vehicle maintenance doesn’t only ensure the proper operation of your vehicle but also prevents potential accidents from happening. Making sure that your car is on its tiptop shape should always be your priority before hitting the road for long travels. This means replacing car parts that you suspect could fail during the trip. Hence, if you think your tyres are up for replacement, don’t hesitate to go to your car parts dealer and have them replaced at once.
Keeping Your Kids Safe
Traveling with your kids should always be a lot of fun. However, it could also be challenging and a bit inconvenient as well. Kids can get noisy and rowdy during these long trips as they can get bored easily. That is why you should bring toys and gadgets to keep them preoccupied during trips and keep them still. Also, make sure that you bring with you easy-to-eat food and drinks so they can easily grab some in case they get hungry on the road. It is also important to schedule stopovers so you and your kids could use the toilet. More importantly, make sure to buckle them up to ensure that they are safe from danger should a collision.
Being a Respectful Driver for Pedestrians, Bicyclists, and Motorcyclists
One way to avoid accidents is by doing safe driving practices while you are out on the road. Some of the most common victims of accidents are innocent pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. You can avoid getting entangled with them by being vigilant, slowing down, and stopping when needed. Be on the lookout for pedestrian crosswalks and always be attentive so that you’d know when to stop and let them pass or avoid them.
Be Prepared for Road Problems and Accidents
You should know that even if you prepared well for your long drive, you may still experience inconveniences on the road. Your vehicle may malfunction or may get involved in an accident. That is why you should have and keep a roadside kit in your vehicle. These kits contain the following:
- Mobile phone
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Flares and white flags
- Jumper cables
- Jack, ground mat, and tools for changing a tire
- Basic repair tools and duct tape
- Jug of water and paper towels
- Non-perishable food, drinking water, and medicines
- Windshield washer fluid
- Maps, and
- Other useful things and tools for emergencies
By being ready and having one of these kits, you are always prepared for anything that may arise during that fun trip.
Summer family trips are always fun. However, road inconveniences and accidents are common during these times where a lot of people are on the freeways. So follow these necessary trips to enjoy a fun, worry-free summer escapade with the people that matters most to you, your family.
