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Pre-drive checks
A safe driver does some pre-drive checks to ensure safety on the road and also to prolong the life of the vehicle. This will reduce maintenance costs to a minimal.
Bonnet Checks
A safe driver checks the coolant which has a minimum and maximum level before take-off. He/she also checks the oil level using a dip stick. There is also need to check the brake and clutch fluid (NB: Some cars may have a dry clutch). The automatic transmission fluid must also be checked.
Motorists must be aware that the ATF used for the power steering is different from the brake fluid used in the braking system. This therefore means you cannot substitute one for the other. A driver must also check the fan belt for tension and looseness as this will affect the car’s charging system.
There is need to quickly sweep your eyes through the engine compartment to take note of any leakages (i.e. oil, water, etc) which must then be taken care of before take-off.
If there are any loose wires, the driver must entrust the services of an auto electrician as loose wires have been known to cause short circuits and at times leading to vehicle fires.
If any lids have been opened, the person checking a vehicle must ensure that they have been closed.
External Checks
A driver must check some external aspects of a car. He/she must check that the tyres do not have a bulge, have a tread and do not have foreign objects such as nails. Remember that in Zimbabwe tyres on the same axle must be of the same size, type and construction. The driver checks the car for dents and any damage to the body work.
One must also check for animals, children and toys that may be underneath, behind or in front of the car.
Internal Checks
After doing the bonnet checks and the external checks a driver must now get into the car and do internal checks. That is when indicator function is established by indicating to both the right and left. If there is no one to assist, the driver must then go out to check the right side and then the left side trafficators.
A driver must also check the controls on the dashboard. One needs to depress the brake pedal to establish footbrake reserve. You do not want to find out in traffic that you have no brakes.
The hooter is also checked while the sitting position is adjusted to match the position of the mirrors. The reverse lights and brake lights must be checked with the assistance of another person. After completing all checks, the driver must carry out a pre-trip inventory.
Pre-trip Mental Inventory
Before you start the trip, sit there quietly for a few seconds while you think about the driving conditions you are likely to meet. You then ask yourself whether there are any unusual conditions of light, weather, road or traffic that you can expect.
How do you feel, mentally or physically? Are you fit to drive? Are you rested or tired, calm or emotionally disturbed? If you are taking any medication, how then will it affect your driving.
After, you have answered the questions, fasten your seatbelt, and turn on the ignition and go. You will have mentally prepared yourself for any possible driving conditions you could encounter on your trip.
Conclusion
You must do some bonnet checks, external checks and internal checks before using your vehicle. Some modern vehicles have a self-checking electronic system which may, if functional, substitute bonnet checks. A pre-trip mental inventory must always be done before each and every trip.
l Ernest Muchena, is a defensive driving expert employed by TSCZ. For feedback contact us on 04-751203/8 or 0772110898.
leeroy