School Holiday Driving

It’s around this time of year, the end of July and throughout August, that the school holidays are in full swing and most families try to get away from the daily grind and relax. For many, this means motoring somewhere; for days out or for longer vacations and that, in turn, means busy roads.

Just because the sun is out (hopefully!) it doesn’t mean that our highways are any safer. Maybe some drivers are less alert while others may not have taken note of what their car is telling them.

Safety First

Because cars are perhaps being used more for longer trips and possibly touring it is generally accepted that the incidence of breakdowns is higher. Perhaps the tyres were not in as good a condition as was thought; maybe the owner didn’t check the oil and fluid levels: The reasons for breakdowns are often trivial and avoidable if a car is properly serviced, so for peace of mind it’s important to get that vehicle properly maintained or at least checked over by a professional car servicing garage to pre-empt any potential problems.

If Children Are Involved 

Sorry, the law requires that you take them with you on holiday and that means making allowances for issues when on the road. Obviously, a well-maintained car is crucial; there’s precious cargo on board, but it’s also necessary to plan for hidden delays (it’s that time of year when the road-mending crews are out in force) and stoppages. That’s why, as any boy scout will tell you, it’s best to be prepared.

What’s On Board?

Having snacks in the car on your summer trips will help to ensure that you or the family don’t suffer from hunger pangs when suffering a long delay on your journey and there’s no shops in sight. Similarly, plenty of water is a must to counteract any dehydration in a hot car.

As for the driver, well different people react differently, but yawning could be a sign that hunger is setting in. A yawning driver is a distracted driver.

For long trips by and large, the usual recommendations apply. Carry games or other entertainment, personal cleaning products, even sun-cream and hats, insect repellent and a first aid kit. Possibly even an umbrella and a blanket for chilly mornings to wrap small children.

What’s In The Boot?

Luggage of course, but also a functioning spare wheel or tyre kit and the tools (all of them) for changing a wheel, including the essential locking-wheel-nut key. The piece of bent wire that car makers think is fine for undoing tight wheel nuts may be okay if you are especially strong, but a proper wheel brace makes life a lot easier. If in doubt, ask your local garage to check over the wheels and tyres and, crucially, the spare wheel, which most of us tend to forget about. A flat spare is the last thing we need when stuck in a soaking wet roadside lay-by.

Additionally, a high-visibility jacket and a warning triangle are always good investments when things go wrong. Unlike many European countries, it is a legal requirement to carry these items in your vehicle in the UK, not yet at least but give it time. Investing in one or two can be very beneficial though when it comes to safety at the roadside.

If the vehicle is immobilised due to a breakdown or accident, wearing a reflective jacket can help to ensure that other drivers can see you; they are especially effective at night. A warning triangle can also help to ensure that you and your vehicle are seen by other motorists. It should be placed on the road at least 45 metres (147 feet) behind your broken-down vehicle on the same side of the road so that observant drivers can slow accordingly. Remember though that the Highway Code advises not to use warning devices on motorways as the risk of deployment is too great.

What’s In The Glove Box?

Odd isn’t it, but you never find any gloves in a glove box these days, but useful items that may come in handy are worth stowing away: Investing in a USB phone charger (with an adapter for older cars with old-school 12v sockets) or portable power bank makes sense. Should a breakdown be experienced, ensuring that your phone has enough power to call for a vehicle breakdown recovery service is vital. A working torch is also a good idea (and some spare batteries).

Getting ready for the Summer holidays is always an exciting time (especially after the 2023/4 Winter and Spring we have recently experienced) but don’t forget to cover all the bases. It may well be time for the annual service but at least ask your local professional garage for an interim service and check over. You might well be glad you did.