5 Vehicle Safety Tips for the Holidays
The holiday season can be a magical time of year with extra time to spend with those we hold dearest. It can also be fraught with stress as we attempt to get from place to place, searching for the perfect gift or planning the perfect party.
The last thing one needs at this time of year is a trip to a Kelowna auto repair shop with car trouble or to repair damage after an accident.
Follow these 5 vehicle safety tips to avoid adding one more stressor to the list this season!
Take Time for a Visual Inspection
In the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s tempting to just hop in the car and move on to the next stop on a long list of places to be. At this busy time, it’s more important than ever to have a quick look at your vehicle before heading on your way. Don’t just clear snow from the windshield before you drive, remove it from the windows, roof, lights, hood and mirrors too. Be on the lookout for frozen windshield wipers and tires that are low on air.
Consider Winter Tires
Speaking of tires, if you haven’t already made the switch to winter tires, now might be a good time to give it some serious thought. Cars equipped with winter tires are 38% less likely to be involved in a collision. Winter tires are an easy way to increase your odds of safely arriving at your destination!
Pack the Car with Care
From a tree on the roof to a fully loaded trunk, there are many opportunities over the holidays for items to shift into a precarious position. Make sure you have a clear line of sight at all times, and if you are using the roof transport for Christmas trees or other bulky items, be sure to take appropriate safety precautions.
Allow Plenty of Extra Time
The roads can be surprisingly busy around major holidays, and there’s nothing quite like watching the clock tick past your expected arrival time to raise stress levels. When you factor in the possibility of a sudden bout of foul weather, getting around can be a challenge. Feeling rushed can lead to bad driving decisions, so allow yourself plenty of time to get to where you’re going.
Don’t Drink and Drive
We hate that this reminder is still required at any time of year, but it seems drivers in BC just aren’t getting the message. Statistics Canada reports recently indicated that Kelowna had the highest rate of drunk-driving offences in the country. Come on; we’re better than that! Find a ride, choose a designated driver, or just stay home if cocktails are on the menu.
We’d like to take this opportunity to wish all of our customers, colleagues, family and friends a safe and happy holiday season. Taking the time to ensure your vehicle is ready for the busy days ahead and following these vehicle safety tips will go a long way towards keeping the season bright.
Motor Werke is a Kelowna auto repair shop that services all types of vehicles, with a specific focus on European automobile brands.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and see the Motor Werke difference in action.
