You can get a free vehicle safety check this Easter
The Vehicle Testing Association (VTA) is offering complimentary safety checks from 25 – 28 March due to notoriously unsafe roads during Easter.
Roads during the Easter period are notoriously dangerous. In an effort to help make South African roads safer over Easter, the Vehicle Testing Association (VTA) is offering complimentary safety checks from 25 – 28 March.
Julian Pillay, the national director of VTA, says that while modern cars are designed to be safe and reliable, wear and tear can compromise their performance, posing risks to passengers’ safety.
“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.
The Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) is a sister association to VTA, and fully supports the drive to check safety critical items.
CHECKING THE ESSENTIALS
The safety check includes ensuring that all of the following are in tact before embarking on a long journey:
Lights
Windscreen wipers
Tyres
Brakes
Seatbelts
Steering mechanisms
Suspension
Exhausts
Wheel alignment
“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 Dewald Ranft, chairperson of MIWA.
To find the nearest participating Testing Station, motorists can refer to the RMI website or contact their regional RMI office for information on participating stations, particularly in major metropolitan areas.
Unfortunately, there are currently no participating members in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State, and Eastern Cape regions.
Pillay reminds motorists that the safety check offered by VTA is not a roadworthy test, but rather a Safety Critical Test.
CAPE TOWN OFFERS FREE VEHICLE SAFETY CHECKS TO LONG-DISTANCE PUBLIC TRANSPORT OPERATORS
In a similar fashion, the City of Cape Town is offering free vehicle checks to long-distance public transport operators.
Ahead of the Easter weekend, the City says the operation will be stationed at the following locations:
Joe Gqabi public transport interchange in Philippi
Bellville traffic department
Long-distance bus terminus in the Cape Town CBD
“This time of year is also notorious for the number of accidents and loss of life and we want to do everything possible to ensure the safety of all our road users,” MMC for Safety and Security, JP Smith told EWN.
“I strongly urge long-distance transport operators to make use of the services offered under the auspices of Operation Exodus.”
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