In 2014, it was estimated that the South African economy forks out over 300 billion bucks each year on car accidents. A lot of these accidents are attributed to cars that aren’t in a roadworthy condition. Which is a nice way of saying that some of these accidents happened because of cars that weren’t in good condition. Balding tyres, sketchy brakes, not enough fluids or in some cases too many…
You might think that you know when a car is in bad condition. You’re probably thinking of an example right now. About 20 years old, sputtering exhaust, weird smells, and worse noises, are we right? The thing is, it’s not always that obvious. In fact, your car might be an offender even though it’s all shiny and smells nice.
Here’s what you need to know about keeping your car in a roadworthy condition.
What does it mean to be roadworthy?
Roadworthiness is when a car is in a suitable operating condition and meets acceptable standards for safe driving. We like to think of it being the key to making your car ‘street-legal’.
Speaking of the law… It’s a strict legal requirement that every car in use on South African roads be roadworthy. This applies to you and public vehicles, from busses and trucks to taxis. Public vehicles actually have to undergo inspections annually in order to renew licences. Your own car should also be checked out just as frequently.
Here are 4 things you need to check to keep your car in good condition:
- Seatbelts: Obvious though this might be, it’s 1 of the most common reasons that cars fail the roadworthy test. You need to check that your seatbelts can extend, fasten and unclasp easily, and aren’t damaged.
- Tyres: The tread must be at least 1mm deep across the whole tyre and the same goes for your spare wheel. You should also check that the pressure and alignment is correct, and that your shock absorbers are in working order.
- Electrical systems: Don’t neglect this! It’s another common factor contributing to why most cars fail the roadworthy test. This check applies to your indicators, wipers, wiring and lights, as well as your battery and hooter.
- Brakes: The importance of working brakes can’t be overstated. Check the brake fluid levels and get a trusted professional to tend to, and change, both the front and rear disc pads.
Secure your own safety
When it comes to your car, it’s vital to keep everything in order… Not just for your safety, but for that of your passengers, pedestrians, and drivers around you. Taking your car in for regular roadworthy checks is how you can secure your own safety and show respect for the life of other road users. It’s better than the alternative, which is a car accident that leads to damage and even injuries or death. The loss and financial implications just aren’t worth the risk.
And while we’re getting serious, it’s also super important to make sure that you have the right car insurance to help you through a car accident. Actually, getting your car roadworthy-ed is a vital step to getting cover, so you’d be killing 2 birds with 1 stone!
Roadworthy = Lifeworthy https://t.co/qELVmn4RJL @TrafficRTMC @DoTransport @KZNTransport #ArriveAlive pic.twitter.com/SzjYb6T5zZ
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) December 15, 2016