It’s official. It is now summer which means the end of another school year and the start of summer vacation. To help motorists plan their summer road trips, CAA Saskatchewan has some safe driving tips, plus tips to keep vehicles running smoothly this summer. Driving Safety Tips:
• Plan ahead, remain focused with a positive attitude, and refrain from any form of distracted driving including use of a mobile device while driving.
• Ensure seatbelts are in proper working condition. Children should be secured properly in car or booster seats.
• Slow to 60 km/hr on Saskatchewan highways when passing emergency responders including tow truck operators, and ambulance or law enforcement personnel assisting other motorists on our highways.
• Be alert for construction zones and obey the posted speed limits.
• Carry a fully-charged cell phone for emergency purposes only and appoint a passenger to manage your phone and satellite navigation needs.
• Pack a vehicle safety kit available at all CAA Saskatchewan Stores or on-line. Also have non-perishable food and water on hand for all vehicle passengers.
• Pull over when safe to do so, to make phone calls, text or review maps.
• Gas prices are easily accessible via the CAA app & CAA Gas Price Monitor.
• Never drink and drive.
Automotive & Recreation Vehicle Tips:
• Have your vehicle inspected prior to travelling to ensure your vehicle is in top operating condition and to avoid breakdowns during your summer travels.
• If unexpected breakdowns do occur, be sure to have access to a roadside assistance provider like CAA. The CAA Mobile App is also available to access roadside service or for CAA Member benefits including TripTiks, tour books and maps. Ask about travel insurance as well.
• The tires are one of the most important items. Check for adequate tread depth, uneven tread wear, bulges, cuts, and other tire damage, and proper tire inflation. Signs of tire problems include a side-to-side wobble at slow speeds; an increased shimmy or vibration at highway speeds; a sharp pull to the side; weaving or fishtailing.
• Also check the brake fluid, the coolant and oil plus window washer fluids.
• Remember to check radiator hoses, examine belts, and check proper belt tension, as well as the windshield wipers.
• Vehicle batteries should also be checked and this can be easily completed at the CAA Care Centre, Regina Battery Depot, or at any CAA Approved Auto Repair Service.
• The wheels on recreation vehicles, boat trailers and camper trailers should be checked as well. The wheel lug nuts need to be set to the proper torque to make sure they do not come loose or come off the trailer. Wheel bearings should be greased and adjusted annually and trailer suspension springs also need to be inspected for wear.
