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Summer Driving Tips

Blog post posted on 02/08/23 |
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Advice

As we say goodbye to the sixth wettest July on record*, we can only hope for warmer temperatures in August.  If you’re about to hit the road on a long journey with the kids during the summer holiday, IAM RoadSmart has some tips to help you plan the perfect road trip.

Before you travel

Check your vehicle before you set off and be sure to carry out your POWDERY checks.

  • Petrol - Make sure that you have enough for the journey and plan refueling stops.
  • Oil - This should be checked when the engine is cold (check your handbook), and the vehicle is parked on a level surface. Also include hydraulic fluids for the clutch, brake, and power steering systems in your inspection.
  • Water – The levels in the radiator and windscreen washer bottles should be checked while parked on a level surface.
  • Damage - Check the bodywork, wheels, and fixtures, including mirrors and windows. Make sure your windows are clean inside and out.
  • Electrics - Check all lights, indicators and hazard warning lights are in good working order. It’s important to make sure your lights are clean, and you test your horn before your journey,
  • Rubber - Check the tyre pressures and tread depth and look for damage to the tyres and wheels, and this should include checking your wiper blades for damage.
  • Yourself -If you were drinking the day or night before, are you fit to drive now? Not only should you think about how much you have to drink, but also what time you stopped drinking. Remember, you may need more than just overnight for alcohol to be out of your system.

Check traffic before you go

Roads are likely to be busier than usual, so when the sun’s shining routes to popular seaside resorts can be particularly packed. And don’t forget roadworks are more commonly planned in summer to take advantage of the dry weather.

Stay hydrated

Although there’s not been much sunshine yet, being cooped up in a car when it is warm outside can be stressful. Always keep plenty of water with you and make sure to keep your passengers hydrated.

IAM RoadSmart’s Chief Examiner, Richard Gladman, says:

“You’d be amazed how many people don’t fill up with fuel or fully-charge their batteries, before setting out. But by thinking about it beforehand and planning your journey, not only will it prevent you running out of fuel and potentially stranded on a roasting motorway embankment, but it will also save you a fortune because filling up with any fuel on a motorway is currently very expensive.”

* Provisional data from the Met Office