Go on holiday safely: How to avoid traffic jams and breakdowns on your journey!

Go on holiday safely: How to avoid traffic jams and breakdowns on your journey!

During the upcoming holiday season, Tüv Nord is warning drivers of the typical challenges associated with holiday driving, particularly traffic jams and technical breakdowns. Dieter Heymann, the manager of the station in Delmenhorst, has put together valuable tips to ensure a safe and relaxed car journey. Before setting off, drivers should ensure that their vehicle is optimally prepared.

An important aspect is loading the vehicle. Heavy items of luggage should be loaded down and close to the backrest to lower the vehicle's center of gravity. Drivers must be careful not to exceed the permitted weight of the vehicle as this could jeopardize safety while driving. In addition, all loose objects in the vehicle should be secured to avoid injuries in the event of unexpected braking maneuvers. Important documents such as travel documents should be stored in the glove compartment, while snacks and drinks can easily fit in the passenger footwell.

Avoiding phantom jams

Phantom traffic jams are another common problem when traveling for vacation. These often arise from the braking behavior of individual vehicles in heavy traffic, which can trigger a chain reaction. To avoid such traffic jams, experts recommend always keeping enough distance, driving evenly and avoiding hectic lane changes. The correct driving style can make a significant contribution to avoiding traffic delays.

In addition, drivers need to prepare for typical summer mishaps. For example, high temperatures can cause tire bursts, especially if the tire pressure is incorrect. Experts recommend keeping tire pressure 0.2 bar above normal in summer. Overheated engines are also a common problem. If the engine overheats, it is important to turn it off safely and check the coolant level after waiting 15 minutes.

Technical precautions

The vehicle battery can also suffer from the high temperatures, especially in electric cars. Drivers should make sure to recharge regularly and park their vehicle in the shade. Air conditioning maintenance is also very important, as neglected air conditioning systems can fail in the summer. Through regular maintenance, defects can be identified and prevented at an early stage.

Overall, good preparation and foresighted driving contribute significantly to a pleasant trip. TÜV Nord emphasizes that drivers should keep an eye on technology in order to enjoy a relaxed and safe car journey. Those interested can find further information and specific tips at NOZ and North24.