As the school holidays kick off and the Easter weekend approaches, many South Africans are gearing up for road trips aimed at reconnecting with loved ones and exploring new, exciting destinations. To ensure your journey is smooth and stress-free, car finance giant, WesBank, has shared indispensable safety tips for planning your road trip adventure in South Africa.
Pre-trip vehicle checklist: key road trip tips
Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to conduct a comprehensive vehicle inspection to avoid unexpected breakdowns and delays. Here’s a handy checklist to keep in mind:
- Brakes: Have your brake pads examined for wear and check for any signs of disc warping.
- Battery: Look for signs of corrosion and ensure the battery is fully charged.
- Lights: Test all vehicle lights, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators.
- Tyres: Inspect pressure and tread depth on all tyres, including the spare.
- Windscreen Wipers: Replace worn wipers to guarantee clear visibility in adverse weather.
- Fluids: Ensure levels of engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid are adequate.
Lebo Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank, underscores the importance of maintenance: “Poor maintenance, particularly of brakes and tyres, often contributes to fatal road crashes in South Africa. Unfortunately, many vehicle owners delay essential maintenance due to tight household budgets. To help our customers, WesBank’s WShop allows qualifying customers to purchase vouchers for selected vehicle add-ons and conveniently add the cost to their finance contracts, easing the financial burden.”
Safe driving habits: road trip tips
Safety starts with using seatbelts—make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up. Maintaining a safe following distance, adhering to speed limits, and obeying all road regulations are vital for ensuring the safety of all road users.
Understanding the dangers of driving under the influence: road trip safety tips
Driving under the influence remains a significant contributor to road fatalities in South Africa, with alcohol-related incidents accounting for roughly 27.1% of fatal crashes, according to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC). The National Road Traffic Act (NRTA) classifies this as a criminal offence, carrying severe penalties, including fines, licence suspension, or imprisonment. If you plan to drink, always arrange for a designated driver or opt for alternative transport.
Important documents and emergency contacts
In addition to vehicle readiness, having the correct documentation is crucial. Ensure that your driving licence and vehicle licence disc are valid, and keep a list of emergency contacts handy, including:
- SAPS (South African Police Service)
- Local ambulance services
- Your insurance provider
- A trusted family member
Cross-border travel requirements
If your itinerary includes travel beyond South Africa’s borders, be mindful of the necessary documents:
- Certified copies of your vehicle’s registration or licence papers.
- A border letter from your financing bank if the vehicle is financed; WesBank customers can easily obtain this document through the online self-service portal.
- Additional paperwork if the driver is not the owner, including a police affidavit and a letter of authority from the registered owner.
- Rental car documentation permitting international travel, if applicable.
WesBank has made it more convenient for customers by providing key vehicle-related documents—like NaTIS copies and border letters—on its digital platforms, including the WesBank Online (WOL) portal and the WesBank mobile app. These platforms offer secure access to necessary paperwork such as settlement letters, statements, tax certificates, and copies of vehicle finance contracts.
Verify your insurance coverage
Double-check with your insurer whether your comprehensive policy covers cross-border travel. If your current coverage doesn’t extend beyond South Africa, consider arranging additional insurance to mitigate potential risks linked to theft or accidents while abroad.
Stay prepared and enjoy your journey
“Taking proactive steps, such as conducting vehicle checks, ensuring your documents are in order, and verifying your insurance coverage, can lead to a hassle-free road trip,” says Gaoaketse. “With the right planning, you can focus on enjoying quality time with your loved ones while remaining safe on the road. By following these essential tips, you are well-equipped to embark on your journey with confidence and peace of mind. WesBank wishes you a safe and pleasant trip.”
As you set off on your adventure, keep these tips in mind to ease your travel experience and create lasting memories!
