We are delighted to have this guest post from Martin V McDonagh of Gluais School of Motoring
email: [email protected]
tel: 087 9586779
Many thousands of Motorists will drive miles through the country over the coming days and it is worth reflecting on a number of safety issues before heading off on a journey. Firstly the engine fluid levels should be checked and topped up where necessary. It is important to be familiar with where each liquid goes and the precise type for the vehicle. Modern car makers are becoming much more fussy about the precise engine oil to be used and if mixed with other brands can have a negative effect on the engine. So the rule is to read the hand book supplied with the car. All the lights should be checked for blown bulbs and it is advisable to carry some spares and have the basic tools to enable a roadside replacement should one blow on the journey
Wind screen washing fluid can be used up much more quickly during wet weather and it would be useful to have a supply for topping up the reservoir.
It is useful also to check for wear and for any cuts on the side walls of tyres and also to check the spare wheel. The air pressure should also be checked and if any of the tyre pressures are much below normal it may indicate that there is a slow puncture. It is useful also to carry a good torch with a flashing amber light and to carry a red triangle to place on the road should there be a break down. A couple of reflective jackets would also be useful to alert following traffic of your presence on the road.
During the current run up the Christmas Holiday most roads are constantly damp from rain which leads to both poor visibility and extra slippery roads, which in turn leads to longer braking distances. In such circumstances the two second rule must be doubled to allow a safe distance from the vehicle immediately in front. If it happens to be a motor bike it is wise to be extra vigilant because of less level of protection compared to four wheelers.
So wishing all road users a safe and accident free Christmas.
Martin
tirespecialist88 says
December 10, 2009 at 5:41 pmThank You for comprehensive advice!
Mr Butterscotch says
December 13, 2009 at 12:52 pmI completely agree – good post. I’d like to highlight that, as especially vulnerable road users, motorcyclists and cyclists should be given special attention. Single track vehicles are by their nature unstable. Whilst your car might happily ride over some loose gravel (or black ice) that has strayed onto the road, this might well be enough to fell either type of rider.