Don't let a breakdown ruin your holiday

Holiday travel should be about making memories, not managing a crisis. A quick pre-trip check and knowing how to handle an emergency safely can help ensure a smoother, safer journey for everyone on the road.

As South Africans get ready to hit the road for the festive season, the roads to the major holiday destinations will once again be busier than usual.

Long distances, high temperatures and heavy traffic all increase the risk of vehicle trouble, so being prepared can mean the difference between a small setback or a serious emergency. A little preparation before you set off can go a long way towards ensuring that your journey is safe and hassle free.

Breakdowns often happen when we least expect them, but they are far easier to manage if you have taken a few simple precautions.

Before you head out, make sure that your vehicle is roadworthy, that your emergency kit is stocked and that you have saved the contact details of your vehicle brand or a subscribed roadside assistance service in your phone.

Before you hit the road

If your vehicle is nearly due for its annual service or if it will become due during the holiday period, have it serviced before hitting the road. During a routine service technicians will also inspect the vehicle and will be able to identify any potential issues that may need sorting, ensuring that your vehicle is in perfect condition and ready for holiday travel.

Check your tyres

Inspect the tread depth, pressure and age of your tyres, including the spare wheel. Old or incorrectly inflated tyres are more prone to punctures or blowouts. Also ensure that all the tools required to change a tyre are in the vehicle, including the jack, jack handle, wheel spanner and lock nut adaptor.

Check fluids

Check vehicle fluids including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and most importantly window washer fluids. Long distance travel can see your window get covered in bugs

and grime and being able to easily clean your windscreen is key to continued visibility and overall safety.

Pack smart

Keep a basic emergency kit in the vehicle, including jumper cables, a cell phone charger and power bank, reflective triangles, a torch, first aid items and bottled water. It is also a good idea to carry some cash should banking systems or point of sale devices along the route be offline.

Plan your route and refuels

Know where the nearest safe stops and fuel stations are located on the route. It is also a good idea to refuel your vehicle whenever possible. During peak times fuel stations can run low on fuel and you don't want to arrive at the only fuel station within a 100km radius with the fuel light on.

What should you do if your vehicle does break down

Even with the best preparation, breakdowns can still happen. If your vehicle develops a problem, immediately move to the left-hand side of the road and find a safe spot to pull over. Avoid stopping on blind corners or hilltops. Switch on the hazard lights, stay calm and assess the situation. Check for immediate risks such as leaking fluids, loose hanging items or anything that may cause a traffic hazard.

Place a reflective triangle about 45 metres behind the vehicle in order to increase visibility. Remain visible at night by wearing a reflective vest and using a torch.

Call for professional help such as your roadside assistance provider, a nearby dealership or RMI accredited workshop. Most insurance companies or fleet tracking companies will have an emergency help button that can be pressed in the case of a breakdown.

If your car needs to be towed, don't get caught by a tow truck scam. Many insurers have contracts with accredited towing services. Keep those details handy and insist that you personally call your insurance or broker, don't let a third party do it on your behalf.

Be cautious of strangers. Politely decline unsolicited offers of help and rather wait for official roadside or workshop assistance.

Keep family informed. Let relatives know your location and the details of who is assisting you.

Holiday travel should be about making memories, not managing a crisis. A quick pre-trip check and knowing how to handle an emergency safely can help ensure a smoother, safer journey for everyone on the road.