Hints & Tips

The motorist has always been very important to Engen. The well being of the motorist is also therefore uppermost in our minds. Travelling long distance is always associated with holidays and fun, but unfortunately, the safety aspect of long distance travelling is overlooked until the horrific numbers of deaths on the road is revealed after a holiday period.

Travelling long-distance is about:

• Sharing the road with others
• The maintenance of the vehicle
• And the safety of the passengers in the vehicle
  

Sharing the Road with Others

• Attitude of the Driver
  Bearing in mind that a motor vehicle is probably the most dangerous weapon the majority of us are every likely to handle, the attitude of the driver of the vehicle is very important. Driving is not about winning, it is about getting from A to B safely.
   
• Defensive Driving
  Driving is about ensuring that you are alert about the environment in which you are driving and that you expect the other drivers to do the unexpected. Road accidents usually involve more than one vehicle… but only one vehicle had to cause the accident.
   
• Obey the Rules
  If everyone obeyed the rules of the road, one would know what you fellow drivers are doing at any time. As you cannot force other drivers to do this, it is important that you do all you can. Remember the indicators when turning. Remember the rules of overtaking.
   
• Speed kills
  South African is a large country and it sometimes takes one many hours to get to a destination. The faster you drive, the less control you have over the vehicle you are driving and the less time you have to react to an incident caused by a fellow driver. Don't fool yourself Speed Kills. Rather be late than never get to your destination.
  

The Maintenance of the Vehicle

This aspect of driving is often neglected, but has serious consequences. Poor maintenance can result in either breakdown or a fatal accident. It is too important to ignore.

• Tyres
  Do not attempt holiday travel without checking your tyres (including the spare wheel) for damage or abnormal wear. The tyre tread must at least pass the match stick test (depth of remaining tread not less than the head of a match stick). The tread is important to avoid the loss of control of the vehicle in wet weather.

  Check that the air pressure of your tyres is appropriate for the load you will be carrying. It is important to check tyre pressures regularly. Air is freely available at all Engen Service Stations. Do not risk your life and that of your loved ones for something that doesn't even cost money. The correct tyre pressure goes a long way in not only ensuring maximum fuel economy and reduced tyre wear, but avoids overheating resulting in a possible blow-out.  

• Vision
  Perfect vision is important when travelling. Ensure that the windscreen on your vehicle is in perfect condition. Fix all chips, cracks and replace the windscreen if necessary. Check the effectiveness of your windscreen wipers. Should they not be effective, do not hesitate to replace them. Check the water level in the windscreen wiper bottle. The windscreen will require a clean periodically when travelling long distance to remove dirt from the windscreen.
   
• Fluid levels
  There are various fluid levels that need to be checked to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the long road.
  • Coolant Level
  • Brake Fluid Level
  • Engine and Automatic Transmission Oil
    
    
• Mechanical
  Check the fan belt and driving belt for the correct tension and appearance. Check the radiator hose and heater and cooling pipes for leaks and check the water level in the battery. Don't hesitate to get help should you not know how to check the readiness of your motor vehicle for a long-distance trip.

Passenger Safety

There are certain rules that need to be obeyed to ensure that the passengers in your vehicle are as safe as they can be. Most of the rules are common sense however, drivers still fail to obey them and place their passengers in unnecessary danger.

• Ensure that everyone is wearing a seatbelt. Pull over should anyone remove their seatbelt. It is just not worth the risk.
• Do not drink and drive. Your reaction time is greatly reduced with the intake of alcohol. Unfortunately you may not get a second chance.
• Drugs and certain medication impair concentration and should not be used when driving. Read the pamphlets of any medication you may be taking to check the side-effects. Should you be in any doubt, please contact your doctor.
• Speed kills. Adhere to the speed limit.
• Stop often to rest and stretch your legs. Make your trip part of your holiday so that 'getting there' isn't the only thing on your mind. Engen 1-Stops and vacation stations are conveniently situated to ensure that you have a place to stop and rest.
• Concentrate on your driving. Remember you are in control of a dangerous weapon.
  

Have a wonderful holiday and a safe journey.