SAFETY > TRIP > PRE-DRIVE

Pre-Drive

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A safe and confident drive starts before you even open the door to your vehicle. Taking a few simple but important steps before you get behind the wheel can prevent accidents, breakdowns, and unexpected delays. This page focuses on essential pre-drive safety checks that form the foundation of responsible and defensive driving.

What should you check before starting your drive? Why is it important to inspect your tires, windows, and look for leaks every time? How can a quick walk-around help you identify problems before they become serious? How do you know if your car is truly ready for the road ahead?

Whether you’re preparing for a short daily trip or a long-distance journey, taking a moment to assess your vehicle’s condition makes a big difference. These pre-drive habits help you stay alert, maintain focus, and protect both yourself and others on the road. Approaching your vehicle is the perfect time for a quick visual inspection of key areas. This simple routine catches potential hazards early, reduces stress, and sets the stage for a smooth and safe trip.

This page offers clear guidance on pre-drive preparation, emphasizing that it is not just a precaution but a vital step in safe and defensive driving. By adopting these habits, you build confidence and ensure your safety every time you hit the road.

• ⮟ Under the vehicle

• ⮟ Around the vehicle

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Under the vehicle

• Any leaks.

• Deflated tires. Maybe a tire is punctured.

• Animals.

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Around the vehicle

Obstacles:

• Take note of any hazards in your path. E.g., a low wall, pole, cable, ditch, toys, etc. that may not be so visible when reversing.

• No toddlers near the vehicle.

• No animals under the vehicle.

Body:

• Any loose panels. E.g., petrol flap, trunk, hood or door not properly closed.

• Anything on the roof, E.g., snow that could slide over and block the windshield when braking.

Windows:

• Pamphlets placed under the wiper.

• Broken window from smash and grab.

• Bird droppings that would block view.

Suspicious:

• Any persons lurking in the vicinity of the vehicle that may want to hijack the vehicle.

• Criminal hiding inside vehicle.

Careless:

• Vandalism.

• Damage from careless individuals parked next to vehicle.

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