Every year around Easter, thousands of motorists get ready to take a well-earned break over the long weekend. Roads during the easter period are however notoriously dangerous and extra precautions need to be taken.
It is therefore essential to have a safety check performed on your vehicle to identify potential hazards and prevent additional damage before it happens. In a proactive initiative to help make our roads safer over Easter, the Vehicle Testing Association (VTA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is offering motorists free safety checks between the 25 March – 28 March 2024.
Julian Pillay, national director of VTA, says although modern cars are manufactured to be safe, high performing and comfortable, parts do wear out and even the smallest of complications and defects can impair one’s vehicle’s performance or handling, risking the safety of all passengers. “A detailed inspection of your vehicle by a professional and experienced vehicle examiner can help determine if it needs repairs or maintenance, and most importantly, if the vehicle is safe for a long trip,” says Pillay. He adds that these safety checks are “no-obligation” checks and purely aimed at creating safety awareness for the motoring public.
Dewald Ranft, Chairperson of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a sister association to VTA fully supports the VTA’s drive to check safety critical items which includes ensuring all lights, seat belts, windscreen wipers, tyres, brakes, steering mechanism, suspension, exhaust and wheel alignment are all intact before starting the long journey. “If any of these components are found to be faulty during the free check, it is advisable for motorists to book their car into one of our accredited workshops before starting your trip,” says Ranft.
To locate your nearest participating Testing Station please check on the RMI website for the RMI regional office in your area. They will be able to advise which stations are participating in the main metropolitan areas. There are currently unfortunately no members in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State and Eastern Cape
“Remember this is not a roadworthy test, but rather a Safety Critical Test to ensure your vehicle is free from defects before you start your journey,” says Pillay.
VTA urges all motorists to do their bit for road safety too and take advantage of the free check.
