2024 Car Safety Checklist
Safe driving starts with safe cars and at Tyre Savings, we’re here to help ensure your vehicle is ready to hit the road. Modern cars are packed full of new safety features but often the most effective ways to keep your car and passengers safe are fairly basic! Let’s take a look at our car safety checklist to ensure you’re ready for the year ahead.
What tools/equipment should I keep in my car?
Fail to prepare, you prepare to fail! You should always have the right tools in your car in case of an emergency. The following are essentials for any vehicle tool kit, how many do you have in yours?
- First aid kit, reflective vest and torch
- Heavy-duty gloves
- Phone charger or emergency (fully charged) phone
- Sturdy footwear in case you have to walk for help
- De-icer
- Screenwash
- Shovel throughout the winter months
- Satnav/GPS
- Blanket & warm clothing
How to check your car before a journey
If you’re setting off on a long car journey, or you just realised that it’s been a while since you last checked your car, here’s a quick guide to essential technical checks.
- Check the oil to ensure it is a clear golden brown and that it reached between the two markets on the dipstick.
- Make sure you have enough screenwash in the vehicle and that you have more stashed in the car for top-ups.
- Check that all lights are working, including your indicators. Wipe lights clean if needed.
- Check that you have enough brake fluid, the reservoir is found on the driver’s side of the vehicle and the fluid should be a golden colour.
- Make sure your windscreen wipers are working properly and that there are no gaps or streaks left after use.
- Check your tyres! Make sure there are no cuts, scratches or bulges in the tyres and ensure your tyre pressure is correct.
How to plan a safe journey
Whether you’re planning a long road trip or just getting ready for a week or commuting, there are ways to ensure that you’re ready for everything.
- If travelling with young children, make sure they have the correct car seat for their weight/height, along with all of the necessary equipment you need to keep them safe and occupied during the journey. ISOFIX is an international standard system that allows you to fit a car seat directly into a vehicle without using a seat belt. Look for reputable brands such as Doona when making purchases for child car safety.
- Remove bulky coats or jackets when driving as this could impact the effectiveness of restraints in an accident.
- If you’re going on a long journey, do a quick inventory of the tools and equipment you have in your car. Replenish any supplies.
- Be prepared for all types of weather! If you do experience a breakdown, you and your passengers may need to exit the car. Warm clothing and footwear are key in the winter months, as is suncream and water in the summer. Pack dry snacks and extra bottles of water in the boot.
Car safety is vital, especially when travelling long distances. Although this checklist is a great way to visually ensure that there is nothing glaringly obvious wrong with your car, it is always worthwhile running a HPI check to make sure there are no underlying issues with the vehicle. Don’t forget to take a look at our blog on the dangers of part worn tyres for more information on protecting your car.