For immediate use
December 3 2009
VACC: Do not leave vehicle safety to the last minute
The holiday season is approaching fast and many Australians are planning their
summer break. But VACC, the peak Automotive Industry body in Victoria, is
concerned holiday makers will overlook one of the most important aspects of their
plans – the car.
“People put a lot of effort into thinking about where to go, where to stay, what time to
leave and which route to take. But unfortunately, many set off without ensuring their
vehicle is safe and fit for the journey,” VACC Executive Director, David Purchase,
said.
“Whether you are travelling thousands of kilometers or popping around the corner, as
the driver, you are responsible for that vehicle’s safety. And if you are not 100
percent confident that the vehicle is safe have it checked by a professional.
“But our advice is book early. We know repairers get exceptionally busy at this time
of year because of the increased volume of vehicles on the roads.
“For peace of mind, motorists should ask a participating VACC repairer to conduct a
Five Point Safety Check when they book a vehicle in for a service. The repairer will
check the vehicle’s key safety areas – the brakes, tyres, lights, steering and
restraints – and it is free.
“And it is not just the car that should be regularly serviced. If you are towing a trailer
or caravan, it too should be fit for the road. Many trailers and caravans are idle for
long periods and, in particular, tyres can deflate or degrade and electric cables can
deteriorate.
“Towing is a task in itself, but towing an unsafe caravan or trailer is a danger.
Motorists owe it to themselves, their occupants and other road users to make sure
their vehicle, and any attachment, is well maintained.
“Unfortunately, holiday driving has become synonymous with the State road toll. For
the corresponding holiday period last year, 25 people died in Victoria in December
2008 and 31 in January 2009*. That is 56 families grieving when the rest of the State
was holidaying.
“One of the keys to VACC’s ongoing Vehicle Safety campaign is driving a safe
vehicle. Take responsibility for your vehicle’s safety, plan rest breaks, drive sensibly
and have an enjoyable holiday,” Mr Purchase said.
Ends.
*TAC Road Safety Monthly Summary to August 2009
NEWS 
