Important pre-journey checks this summer
Fuel
Make sure you’ve got enough for your trip. In heavy traffic, cars use more fuel. If you need to hire a van, consider Van Hire Bristol from https://www.autolynecarvanrental.co.uk/van-hire-bristol
Oil
To reduce overheating and engine damage, always check the oil level.
Coolant
It is vital to ensure that the engine operates at the correct temperature. This could indicate a serious problem, so you should contact an experienced garage immediately if it is not within the “min” and “max” levels. Check and top up the coolant.
Towing a caravan
Check the condition of the tyres if you are towing. Tyres degrade quickly if they have not been used in a while, so look for cracks on the sidewalls. Check the brake system, indicators, brake lights and the coupling gear.
You should ensure that your caravan is balanced and the weight distributed according to the instructions of the manufacturer. It’s not a good idea to find out that your load is uneven when you get on the road. Never overload your car or trailer beyond its capacity.
Vulnerable road users
The good weather is a perfect time to go horseback riding, walking or cycling, but you may run into slow-moving animals, people, cars, etc. around the next corner.
Horse riders:
Give the horse plenty of space, and slow down in advance. Don’t make sudden sounds or rush. Horses can be unpredictable.
Road walkers and cyclists:
You should give them plenty of space and reduce your speed in advance if you are approaching behind a bicycle or group of pedestrians, just as if you were approaching a horse-rider. You must allow them plenty of space, and slow down in good time.
Always give your mirrors a quick look before you turn left in urban areas where traffic is fast-moving.
Glare
A bright sun can be a major problem for drivers who are driving through it. Sun visors may not always work.
It is a good idea to keep sunglasses with you in your car, both for safety and fashion.
Certain types of sunglasses are not suitable to wear while driving and should be avoided. It is illegal to drive with sunglasses that fall into category four. They let through less than 8% of the light.
In the UK, sunglasses must have a label that shows the “filter category number”. The fourth category should have the label “not suitable for road and driving use”.
Road rage in summer
Stress levels are increased by the rising temperatures, busy schedules and summer traffic.
- Plan your route ahead of time, avoid heavily trafficked roads and times if possible and take frequent breaks.
When driving with kids, make sure they’re comfortable and happy. Provide them with plenty of in-car entertainment and frequent breaks for stretching their legs.
