Be Sure You’re Fit To Travel

MEDIA RELEASE
December 4, 2000
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BE SURE YOU’RE FIT TO TRAVEL

During Christmas and New Year, thousands of kiwis take to the roads for holiday destinations across the country.

It is of real concern, says Vehicle Testing New Zealand spokesman, David Ballantyne, that many of the vehicles they travel in will not have a current warrant of fitness.

These non warranted vehicles run the risk of a substantial fine ($200) and the invalidation of their insurance, but perhaps, most important the vehicles could be unsafe putting the owners and their families, not to mention other road users risk, Mr Ballantyne says.

“Essentially, a warrant of fitness is a safety inspection to ensure vehicles comply with mandatory safety requirements necessary for safe vehicle operation on the road.

“Checking of tyre tread and brake function are a fundamental part of the test as statistics show bald tyres and inadequate brakes play a major part in many road accidents,” he says.

In addition to having a current warrant of fitness, Mr Ballantyne says it makes sense to have a pre-Christmas holiday safety check to ensure other critical vehicle functions are operating properly. VTNZ advises people check for:
 out of date - will your WOF run out before you get home? If so, don’t leave it too late to get a new one.
 tyre pressure - check pressure when cold, including the spare. If you have a space saver spare tyre, make sure the pressure is higher than the regular tyres. If in doubt check your handbook. While checking tyre pressure look for tread depth and uneven wear.
 radiator - check also, levels of oil, brake, clutch and windscreen washer fluids.
 battery - check levels and ensure securely fastened.
 child safety - check child restraints and operation of child door locks.
 quick stop - ensure you know the condition of brake linings and pads.

One final check is to ensure your vehicle has current registration. If it hasn’t, you could face a $200 fine. Vehicle registration is now available at some insurance outlets and independent vehicle testers in addition to Vehicle Testing New Zealand.

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