As Zimbabwe heads into spring, research such as this is important to prepare for the heatwaves of summer. B Tom from Drive Zim says that drivers should take the time to remind themselves or their employees about the importance of defensive driving as the most effective means to prepare for summer driving.
There are more fatal crashes during summer.
This is for various reasons:
- More people on the roads
- More congestion as a result
- More people go on holiday trips, particularly toward the end of the year
- People go out more, often resulting in more intoxicated drivers
- Hot weather can adversely affect vehicles
DZRA notes “Additionally, ongoing vehicle maintenance is also vital to reduce risks associated with driving in hot weather. Follow these tips to prepare for the challenges associated with the coming summer.”
Prepare your vehicle
Tyre tread needs to be no less than 3mm, especially during summer rain. “Underinflated tyres increase the risk of a blow-out too. Vehicle batteries also experience extra strain in temperatures over 25°C. Park in the shade whenever possible and there are other things one can do to prolong battery life depending on the type of battery in your vehicle. “Check oil, windscreen wiper and coolant levels at the start of summer. Coolant is essential to prevent overheating, especially in hot weather when vehicles overheat faster,”
Prepare yourself
Drive with polarised sunglasses to reduce the effect of the sun’s glare on your visibility as well as long-term sun damage to your eyes. “During heatwaves carry water with you to avoid the dangerous effect dehydration can have on your driving. “Be cautious of fatigued driving. Get enough sleep the night before to reduce the effect congestion in heat can have on your alertness. On long trips rest every two hours. Additionally, be aware that higher temperatures will automatically affect fatigue levels and watch out for signs of drowsy driving,”
Prepare for your drive.
Route planning is particularly important to avoid the impact hot weather can have on driving. “Check the news and social media channels for traffic alerts to avoid congestion in high temperatures. When travelling long distances check for areas affected by roadworks or the occurrence of crashes. “Expect congestion, additional pedestrians and higher risk driving at destinations like summer concerts, events, sporting events or holiday destinations. Keep your cool (figuratively and literally) and be prepared to expect stop-and-go traffic, people moving unexpectedly into your path and other risky scenarios. Use AC or if you do not have one, leave earlier or later to avoid congestion and heat.”
Be on the lookout for impaired drivers. “If you spot someone driving erratically get some distance between yourselves and alert authorities to avoid endangering others as well,” says B Tom.
Preparing for a breakdown
However much you prepare, there’s always a chance that your car might leave you stranded. So it’s important to have a Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance membership and be fully prepared for a breakdown: With so many different policies on the market, knowing which best suits your needs can be difficult. Of course, nobody can make this decision for you, but there are several factors you should consider when choosing a breakdown membership. Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance provides a unique, comprehensive and competitively-priced emergency roadside assistance, towing and recovery service with seven levels of membership packages to suit all your needs and pockets. Call us or WhatsApp at 0780 579 261/0718 084 297 / 0736 523 424 Office+2638677160725 Email:info@drivezim.co.zw. https://www.facebook.com/105600827733427