🔍 1. Vehicle condition
Before hitting the road, it’s essential to check that the car is in optimal condition. This includes:
- 🔋 Battery: check the fluid level and prevent corrosion on the terminals.
- 🛞 Tyres: check the pressure when cold and the condition of the spare.
- 🛑 Brakes: check pads, brake fluid, and the handbrake.
- 💡 Lights: all must work and be correctly aimed.
- 💦 Windscreen wipers: check the reservoir, blades, and jets.
- 🛢️ Oil and coolant: correct levels and no leaks.
- 🚙 Plates and trailer: proper visibility, cleanliness, and lighting.
A thorough check can prevent unexpected mechanical failures and ensure safety. 🔧
🧠 2. Driver’s condition
The driver should be well rested 🛌, avoid heavy meals 🍲, and not take medicines that affect attention. Your physical state is your best defence at the wheel! 🚘
🗺️ 3. Route choice
Plan with maps or GPS 🗺️. Avoid roadworks, risky crossings, and choose safe routes with less traffic. In winter, avoid mountain passes at night and carry chains if needed. ❄️
⏰ 4. Day and time of departure
Avoid rush hours. Leaving early 🕓 or at dawn can help you avoid traffic jams. Driving with the sun in front improves visibility. 🌄
👨👩👧👦 5. Passenger seating
Children under 12 must travel in the back seats with approved restraint systems if they are under 135 cm. 👶 Child safety is mandatory. ✅
🧳 6. Load and luggage
Luggage should go in the boot and be well secured. If it goes inside the cabin or on the roof rack, it must be balanced and must not obstruct the driver’s view. ⚖️
📄 7. Documentation
| Document | Mandatory |
|---|---|
| Driving licence | ✅ |
| Vehicle registration certificate | ✅ |
| ITV card (vehicle inspection) | ✅ |
| Latest insurance receipt | ✅ |
| Additional insurance | 🔄 Optional |
🧭 8. Behaviour in traffic
Keep to the right, obey signs 🚦, maintain a safe following distance, and use signals with lights, horn, or hand to communicate manoeuvres. 🤝
🛑 9. Stops and rest
Rest every 2 hours or every 200–300 km. 🚻 Signs S-17 and S-123 indicate rest and parking areas. Avoid alcohol and stay well hydrated. 💧
🌍 10. Travelling abroad
Carry additional documents such as your passport 🛂, an international driving permit, and the insurance Green Card. Check the traffic regulations of your destination country. 🌐
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