Ten Top Tips For Getting There Safely

VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA – January 5, 2011: Holden is calling on motorists to get safely to their summer holiday destination, by ensuring that they - and their vehicle - are well prepared for the journey ahead.

Holden Vehicle Structure and Safety Integration Manager, Steve Curtis, said driving holidays remained popular with Australians, but our country’s vast geography often resulted in drivers travelling long distances to get to their destination.

“Before motorists take to the take road over the summer break - especially if they’re travelling a significant distance - they should take the time to ensure that their vehicle is in the best possible condition and has undergone a thorough service and safety check,” Mr Curtis said.

“And once on the road, drivers should be mindful that, during peak holiday times, there may be more traffic than usual, many with drivers tired and stressed as they head off for a break or to visit family and friends.”

Mr Curtis said it was important for drivers to plan ahead, take breaks every 90 minutes, and ensure passengers were correctly restrained at all times, including children.

“It’s particularly important to take care of the junior occupants of your car – as they can’t do it for themselves,” he said.

“Wherever possible, install child restraints in the centre rear of a vehicle and ensure they’re firmly fitted, with minimal sideways or forward movement on the car seat.

“On every trip, no matter how long or short, it’s important to make sure that the child restraint harness is properly adjusted, checking that only the thickness of two fingers can be inserted between the harness and the child’s chest,” he said.

He said many of the best ways to stay safe on the roads, came down to simple good judgement and common sense.

“Speed continues to remain a factor in many road collisions – the simple fact is, despite significant advances in safety technology, drivers who speed endanger themselves, their passengers and other road users. And at this time of year, when drivers are often using roads unfamiliar to them, the risk is heightened,” he said.

“At times, drivers may feel like there is pressure on them to get to their destination so that a holiday can begin, but the reality is that running a few minutes late is definitely worth it if it helps you avoid an accident.”

Ten top tips for getting there safely

Ensure your vehicle has been serviced and safety checked before heading off. Remember to check your oil and coolant levels and pressure in all five tyres. If towing a trailer, boat or caravan, check the tow hitch and electrics.

Ensure all loose items are restrained – wherever possible, stow articles in the luggage compartment and if you’re driving a wagon, consider fitting a cargo barrier/net to avoid loose objects entering the cabin. Don’t overload your vehicle

When setting off on a trip, allow extra travel time and avoid the need to speed

Ensure you have had enough sleep prior to a long drive

Share the driving whenever possible

Take a break out of the vehicle at least every 90 minutes – use rest areas situated along many major routes

Never drink alcohol – even small quantities – before or during long trips

Avoid driving when using medication that may affect your driving – check labels on your medication and if in doubt, ask your doctor

Minimise in-car distractions such as mobile phones – if you need to make or answer a call, pull over somewhere safe to do so

Try to relax and don’t respond to others’ aggressive behaviour on the roads - reacting to someone else’s aggression will only make the situation worse