The IAM have offered some great tips on how to ensure you make the most of the start of uni by arriving safely and without incident. Here they are (worth a read for parents and students alike):
Secure packing
Make sure you pack your belongings in a secure and organised manner. Keep a check list of the items you intend to take with you so you don’t overload your vehicle. Both zipper bags and suitcases will ensure your possessions are not left lose, and can be safely placed into the car boot.
Room to manoeuvre
If you are travelling to university with family and friends, keep plenty of room for them in your car. If you plan to use the rear car seats for your luggage then don’t seat passengers here as space will be constraint. It is also important that the driver has room to manoeuvre, while making sure the luggage does not distract them.
Fuel up
Before you start your journey don’t forget to check you have plenty of fuel for the road. When you travel with excess luggage the weight of any vehicle increases, which means more fuel is used. While you may think a half full tank is enough it is best to fill the tank right up. You don’t want to be left stranded on the highway, and you don’t have to be if your fuel gauge is full.
Clear windscreen
Don’t forget to double check your windscreen wipers are in good working condition. Drivers often overlook vital checks and realise their wiper blades are not working properly in bad weather. If you have not checked your blades for more than six months make sure you do so before you start your journey. Poor performing wiper blades can affect your journey – ensure you replace them.
Night driving
If you plan to drive to your university halls in the evening, you must take extra care, more than you normally would. Stick to driving on well-lit roads and take a route you are familiar with. Night driving requires you to see and be seen by other drivers so it is important to double check your headlights are working beforehand. Clear away any glare shadowing over your wing mirrors and windscreen as this can make it more difficult to see.
Ensure you drive at a reduced speed as your ability to assess what is going on is reduced too.
Go gadget free
Smart phones and tablets are a major distraction to drivers on the road. It is best to travel gadget free to avoid any major accidents. Make sure you keep your gadgets packed away in a zipper bag, so you don’t feel the need to use them on your journey. Remember, using a mobile phone whilst driving is not only illegal, but extremely dangerous – take care of yourself and fellow passengers around you.
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