Key Takeaways
- Be mindful of your car’s surroundings, especially in busy parking lots and when driving behind trucks.
- Choose safe parking spots and maintain a safe distance from trucks to avoid stone chips and debris.
- Consider investing in Scratch and Dent Insurance to cover minor damages and maintain your car’s resale value.
Planning an Easter weekend getaway? Before you hit the road, it’s important to ensure your car is protected. Even a short trip to the shops can expose your vehicle to potential scratches, dents, and chips. This article provides tips on preparing your car, protecting it during your journey, and maintaining your car’s condition post-trip.
Easter Weekend Getaway Preparation
Before packing your boot, and leaving for your Easter road trip, give your car a basic pre-road trip check. Ensure your tyres are properly inflated and have sufficient tread, check all fluid levels, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer fluid, and top up as needed. Finally, make sure all lights are working correctly, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators. A well-prepared car is less likely to encounter problems on your trip.
P.S. Don’t forget to check your spare tyre and ensure it’s properly inflated.
Protecting Your Car from Scratches and Dents
When parking your car during your Easter getaway, it’s crucial to be mindful of the environment to prevent scratches and dents. Busy parking lots can be particularly hazardous, as people in a rush often don’t notice their surroundings, leading to accidental bumps and scratches. Choose parking spots that are well-lit and away from high-traffic areas, such as near shopping trolleys or other vehicles. Avoid tight spaces between cars, as these increase the risk of door dings and scratches.
In addition to parking precautions, driving scenarios also pose risks to your car. Driving behind trucks, especially those carrying gravel or stone, can be hazardous. Stones or debris can be kicked up by the truck’s tires onto your vehicle. This can cause scratches or dents to your car’s bodywork or windshield. To mitigate this risk, maintain a safe distance from trucks and avoid following them closely. If you must pass, do so quickly and safely to minimise exposure to potential debris. Additionally, be cautious when driving on roads with loose gravel or stones, as these can also cause damage to your car’s paint and bodywork.
Consider investing in Scratch and Dent Insurance from Bidvest Insurance to cover unexpected minor damages, preserving your car’s appearance and resale value.
Why Scratch and Dent Insurance?
Scratch and Dent Insurance is a valuable addition to your insurance portfolio, offering several benefits that protect budget, and the resale value of your vehicle. Here’s why you should consider getting Scratch and Dent Insurance.
Cost-Effective Repairs
Standard Car Insurance policies often don’t cover small cosmetic damages, leaving you to foot the bill for those annoying scratches and dents. With Bidvest Insurance’s Scratch and Dent Insurance, you can get your car back to pristine condition without the usual headaches of car repairs, making it a cost-effective solution for maintaining your car’s appearance.
Maintains Value
Accumulated scratches and dents can significantly lower your car’s resale value, making it harder to sell or trade-in when you’re ready for an upgrade. By covering minor damages, Scratch and Dent Insurance helps maintain your car’s value.
By investing in Scratch and Dent Insurance, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your car is protected from inevitable scratches and dents. Scratch and Dent Insurance preserves your car’s appearance and helps maintain its resale value, ensuring that your car remains a valuable asset over time.
Long Weekend Safe Driving Tips
Safe driving is important, especially during long weekends when roads are busier. Always adhere to speed limits and maintain a safe following distance to allow for sudden stops. Be extra vigilant in construction zones and areas known for potholes. Avoid driving on gravel roads or in areas with loose stones, as these can cause stone chips to your windscreen and bodywork. Plan your route in advance and be aware of potential hazards along the way.
Here are some additional tips to enhance your safety on the road:
- Take Regular Breaks: Long drives can be tiring, so schedule regular stops to stretch your legs and rest. This is especially important if you’re travelling with children or pets, as they need breaks too.
- Stay Focused: Avoid distractions while driving. Keep your phone on silent mode and use it only for GPS. If you need to make a call or respond to a message, pull over to a safe area.
- Practice Defensive Driving: Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and be prepared to react to unexpected situations.
- Avoid Low Visibility Conditions: Try to avoid driving during heavy rain, mist, or at night. If possible, plan your journey to coincide with daylight hours when visibility is better.
Post-Trip Vehicle Care
Once you’ve returned from your Easter getaway, give your car some TLC. Start by washing your car thoroughly to remove any dirt, mud, or road grime accumulated during the trip. Inspect the exterior for any new scratches, dents, or chips that may have occurred. Address these promptly to prevent rust or further damage. Check your tyres again and ensure they are still properly inflated.
You should also clean your car’s interior too. Vacuum the seats and carpets, and clean any stains or spills. Finally, review your car’s maintenance schedule to ensure you’re up to date with any necessary services.
FAQs
Does Scratch and Dent Insurance cover pre-existing damage?
No, Scratch and Dent Insurance typically does not cover pre-existing damage.
How much does Scratch and Dent Insurance cost?
With Bidvest Insurance, you can get Scratch and Dent Insurance from as little as R120 per month.
Why should I consider Scratch and Dent Insurance?
Scratch and Dent Insurance helps maintain your car’s appearance and resale value by covering minor damages that can occur from everyday driving.
What types of damage are typically covered by Scratch and Dent Insurance?
Scratch and Dent Insurance covers minor scratches, dents, chips, windscreen chips, wheel rim damage and hail damage.
