17/12/2019
ROBERT McCRACKEN FLEET SPECIALIST
MOTORING NEWS
Here's Wishing you all a Magic Christmas and an Awesome New Year 2020.
With the festive season upon us, South Africans across the country are getting ready for some much-needed down time.
Whether that means packing your bags and getting away for a bit or ‘staycationing’ at home, it’s important to keep road safety top of mind at this time of year as traffic volumes begin to swell and end-of-year celebrations get into full swing. And so the Nissan Group of Africa has put together the following list of important road safety tips for the holidays.
Of course, your first course of action should be to invest in one of our exceptional vehicles. But these safety tips should keep you safe, no matter what you’re driving or where you’re going – be it the coast or the mall.
• Make sure your car is up to date in terms of servicing and get any mechanical faults fixed.
• Pop into your local service station and also check the oil and water levels, tyre pressure, spare tyre and lights.
• Compare different routes to your destination and try to avoid any road maintenance along the way. Most navigation apps alert you to road maintenance.
• Get a good night’s rest before you start your journey and if you’re traveling with children and pets, ensure they are properly strapped in and that they have toys or games to keep them busy.
• Before leaving, make sure your home is securely locked up and that your neighbours know that you’re going on holiday.
• Keep a phone charger in your car to ensure you’re not stranded in the event of an emergency.
• Keep details regarding your roadside assistance company, car insurance company and medical aid company on hand along with a list of other relevant emergency contacts, such as paramedics and police. A list of these numbers can be found below.
• Adhere to all rules of the road and don’t drink and drive, speed, text while driving or drive aggressively. And don’t forget to indicate when turning or changing lanes.
• Try to choose healthy snacks over processed, sugary food and drink that may give you an immediate boost but result in an energy crash later on.
• Do not eat too much while driving because eating can make you sleepy.
• Take a break every two hours in a safe area and get out of the car to stretch your legs.
• Pull over if you’re feeling tired, or sleepy, but try not to stop on the highway. Rather take the next off-ramp.
• Remember that criminals are also on the move during the holidays and always be aware of your surroundings.
The Nissan Group of Africa wishes all South Africans a joyous and peaceful festive season as well as a prosperous new year and all those who plan on travelling, a safe and happy journey.
Emergency numbers:
Nissan Roadside Assist: 0800 647726 (Nissan)
Emergency Services: 112 (MTN, Vodacom and Cell C)
Police Flying Squad: 10111
Crime Stop: 08600 10111
Ambulance Services: 10177
ER24: 084 124
Netcare: 082 911
