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MIWA’s top safety tips for festive travel

Dec 01, 2025 MIWA, Motor Industry Workshop Association, DeWald Ranft, Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI),


MIWA’s top safety tips for festive travel

 

The roads will once again be busier than usual, as South Africans gear up for the festive travel season. Long distances, high temperatures, and heavy traffic all increase the risk of vehicle trouble, so being prepared can make all the difference between a small setback and a serious emergency. Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), says a little preparation before you set off can go a long way toward ensuring your journey is safe and stress-free.

 

“Breakdowns often happen when we least expect them, but they’re far easier to manage if you’ve taken a few simple precautions. Before you head out, make sure your vehicle is roadworthy, your emergency kit is stocked, and that you’ve saved the contact details of a MIWA-accredited workshop near your destination,” he advises.

 

Pre-trip safety checklist - Before you hit the road, MIWA recommends taking the following steps:

1.    Service your vehicle - Schedule a professional inspection or service at a MIWA-accredited workshop to ensure your brakes, tyres, fluids and lights are in top condition.

2.    Check your tyres – Inspect tread depth and pressure (including the spare). Underinflated or worn tyres are a leading cause of holiday breakdowns.

3.    Top up fluids – Check engine oil, coolant, brake and windscreen washer fluids.

4.    Pack smart – Keep a basic emergency kit with jumper cables, reflective triangles, torch, first aid items, and bottled water.

5.    Plan your route – Know where the nearest safe stops and fuel stations are located.

 

What to do if you break down - Even with the best preparation, breakdowns can still happen. Here is our best advice to help you stay safe until help arrives:

1.    Stay calm and assess the situation. Take a deep breath and check for immediate risks, such as leaking fluids or traffic hazards.

2.    Move to a safe location. If possible, steer the vehicle to the shoulder or a rest area away from moving traffic. Avoid stopping on blind corners or hilltops.

3.    Turn on hazard lights and lock doors. This alerts other drivers and keeps you secure, particularly after dark.

4.    Place a reflective triangle. Position it about 45 metres behind your car to increase visibility.

5.    Call for professional help. Contact your roadside assistance provider or a nearby MIWA-accredited workshop for reliable, professional support. Most insurance companies or fleet tracking companies will have an emergency help button in the case of a break down. If your car needs to be towed don’t get caught in a tow truck scam. Many insurers have contracts with accredited towing services. Keep these details handy and insist you personally call your insurer or broker. Do not allow a third party to do this.

6.    If traffic is heavy, stay inside your vehicle. Keep seatbelts fastened and wait for help.

7.    Stay visible at night. Use a torch or reflective vest if you must step outside.

8.    Be cautious with strangers. Politely decline unsolicited offers of help and rather wait for official roadside or workshop assistance.

9.    Keep family informed. Let someone know your location and who is assisting you.

 

“Holiday travel should be about making memories, not managing crises,” says Ranft. “A quick pre-trip check at your local MIWA-accredited workshop and knowing how to handle an emergency safely can help ensure a smoother, safer journey for everyone on the road.”

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