Steering Clear of Penalties and Mishaps During Summer's Heatwave
In the spirit of summer adventures, it's essential to ensure that your vehicle is equipped to carry your gear safely and securely. The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has issued a series of recommendations to help you navigate the roads with peace of mind.
- Secure and evenly distribute your load - To prevent items from shifting or falling out during transport, secure them firmly inside your vehicle or trailer using straps, nets, or containers. This simple step minimizes the risk of accidents or debris on the road [1].
- Avoid overloading or placing items outside the vehicle without proper securing - Unsecured loads can lead to fines and traffic violations. Keep items inside or in secured trailers wherever possible [1].
- Transport heat-sensitive items wisely - For items like electronics, cosmetics, and food, opt for climate-controlled parts of the vehicle, such as the air-conditioned cabin or cooled storage containers. Avoid leaving such items in the trunk or direct sunlight, which can cause damage and safety hazards [2][3].
- Pack strategically - Use smaller, well-labeled boxes for heavy or fragile items, and keep an essentials box separate for immediate needs like water and medication to avoid multiple stops [1].
- Stay hydrated and dress appropriately - Maintain personal safety during loading/unloading by staying hydrated and dressing appropriately for the summer heat [1].
- Inspect and secure trailer loads - If you're towing trailers, inspect the hitch, lights, tires, and secure the load properly to ensure safe, stable towing. Follow trailer weight distribution guidelines and practice safe driving by maintaining speed and using proper braking techniques [2].
- Park in shaded areas - When transporting temperature-sensitive items, park in shaded areas and plan stops indoors if traveling long distances, to check and maintain safe conditions [3].
- Secure items in the trunk - It's vital to use straps or cargo nets to secure items properly in the trunk. Small items like beach mats, umbrellas, hammocks, or coolers should always be placed in the trunk to ensure safety [1].
- Use roof boxes or roof racks - For extra luggage, it's crucial to install roof boxes or roof racks following the manufacturer's instructions and distribute the weight evenly inside [4].
- Avoid inflating inflatable toys or mats during transport - Inflated items can interfere with the driver's visibility, especially if they are in the back seat or exceed the height of the trunk [5].
By following these guidelines, you reduce the risk of unsafe load shifts, heat damage, and traffic fines, ensuring a safer summer transport experience. Remember, a little preparation can make a significant difference in your journey. Happy travels!
[1] DGT (2021) Safety tips for transporting summer items. [Online] Available at: https://dgt.gob.es/noticias/noticia-117726/consejos-seguridad-transporte-articulos-estio-verano.html
[2] RAC (2021) Summer packing tips for a stress-free road trip. [Online] Available at: https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/summer-packing-tips-for-a-stress-free-road-trip/
[3] AAA (2021) Summer travel tips: Packing, planning, and staying safe on the road. [Online] Available at: https://newsroom.aaa.com/2021/06/summer-travel-tips-packing-planning-and-staying-safe-on-the-road/
[4] Euro Car Parts (2021) Roof boxes and roof racks: A guide to choosing the right one for your car. [Online] Available at: https://www.eurocarparts.com/advice/roof-boxes-and-roof-racks-a-guide-to-choosing-the-right-one-for-your-car/
[5] BBC News (2020) The shocking force of a loose item in a car. [Online] Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-cornwall-54573431
- For a safer and more secure transport, consider installing roof boxes or roof racks to accommodate your additional luggage, ensuring that the weight is evenly distributed [9].
- In the realm of car maintenance, it's crucial to secure items properly in the trunk using straps or cargo nets to minimize the risk of items shifting during transportation [8].
- To further enhance your summer adventures, research car finance options and invest in a dependable vehicle equipped for transportation and adaptable to your lifestyle, allowing you to easily carry your gear safely and securely [cars, finance, lifestyle].
