Driving along the highway, blasting the stereo, and singing your heart out – it’s the typical scenario shown in movies of people on a road trip with either family or friends. But for Mark, this scenario is only possible if there is a contingency plan for any emergency that may happen along the way.
His friends, who are also car enthusiasts, gave him a checklist of the things he must secure before hitting the road.
“It’s a known motoring term called BLOWBAG. And being who I am, I added what I think is the most important thing to remember and that’s insurance. Never travel without one. So I call my checklist I B.L.O.W.B.A.G. instead.”
A frequent traveler and an Automaster car insurance policyholder, Mark claims that the scenario described is possible only if contingency plans for possible problems that may come along the way are made.
“I actually don’t get why some people think that having a car insurance policy in the Philippines is burdensome, when there’s nothing wrong with being sure. It pays to be ready for any circumstance, and as a driver you have a responsibility, not just to others, but to yourself as well. Your family the most! Having a car insurance at the ready is the most effective contingency plan to have in case of emergencies!”
Aside from securing a car insurance policy from AutoMaster, he also recommends thoroughly checking your car before hitting the road, paying close attention to the following:
Brakes. Brake fluid and brake pads. In the Philippines, most accidents that have claimed countless lives have been commonly blamed on loss of brakes. Check your brake fluid and ensure that it’s within the minimum and maximum amount indicated. If below than minimum, refill before you go. Have professionals inspect your brake pads as well if you don’t know how.
Lights. Whether it is for a day trip or a night trip, check if your headlights (high beam and low beam), signal lights, brake lights, and park lights work correctly. Each one of these helps relay your movement to other drivers on the road. For example, brake lights are very important as it lets cars behind you to know if you are slowing down.
Oil. Your car’s entire engine runs on oil. Running low or having overused and dirty engine oil can cause severe issues on your engine and ruin your road trip plans. Worse, it can prematurely send your car to the scrapyard. Most mechanics and car enthusiasts swear by the 5,000th kilometer rule, wherein you have to have your car’s oil changed every 5,000 kilometers interval.
Water. Smoke coming from the hood of your car is never a good sign. During long distance out of town trips, bring along a gallon or two of distilled water. One for drinking and another for preventing your engine to overheat and for your windshield fluid reservoir.
Battery. What’s more frustrating than a car that refuses to start? Have your car battery checked right before you leave to know if it needs replacing.
Air. Before you head to your destination, check your tire’s air pressure. Having properly inflated tires runs the risk of getting them blown out. What’s more, you actually save more gas and experience a smoother drive when your car tires inflated correctly. Don’t forget bringing along your spare tires too!
Gas. Imagine in the middle of nowhere, your car runs out of gas so you have to walk to the nearest gasoline station, hitch a ride to get help, or contact a towing company (which costs a lot of money by the way). To save you from all that hassle, fill up your gas tank.
Planning your next road trip does not have to be tedious. Always remember the I.B.L.O.W.B.A.G. rule to save yourself from worrying about any emergency that may involve your vehicle. By preparing your car well for the journey ahead, the only bumps you will be encountering will be the country’s asphalted streets and rocky roads towards your destination. With Malayan AutoMaster, you can now stay on the road free of worries!
