Festive Season Traffic Survival Guide

The festive season is just around the corner, and as a Malaysian, you’re probably already planning for your next big trip with your family. It could be quality time by the beach or the annual road-trip convoy visiting family members all around the country. Wherever you go during this period, there’s one thing all travellers have in common, holiday traffic anxiety.

Those who travel regularly in Malaysia know exactly how challenging Malaysian holiday traffic can be. Chill, here are some tips to make your journey smoother and safer:

1.      Sleep before travel, not during

Ensure you get enough rest and sleep before hitting the road. Driving in fatigue can lead to slower reactions, more frequent or worse, a road accident. Plan with your co-pilot to switch drivers when one is tired, this will ensure your journey to be smoother and safer.

2.      Rules are made to be followed

Drive responsibly and always abide by traffic rules to ensure a smooth journey for you and others on the road. Speeding, tailgating and changing lanes dangerously can cause accidents or forcing other drivers to sudden brake and create a traffic shockwave or phantom traffic jams.

3.      Plan your drive, not excuses

If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail. Be fully prepared before you step out of the house as poor planning can add unnecessary time to your journey.  Make sure you know which route to take and best time to hit the road, check live traffic updates to avoid being stuck in traffic, plan your food stops and toilet breaks.

4.      If your car isn’t roadworthy, neither are you

Make sure your car is properly maintained before going on a long trip. Double-check your battery condition, tyre pressure and engine oil. Keep your insurance provider’s contact number handy in case of any emergencies. Learn more about Perodua Total Protect Plus or book a service before you travel.

Above all, remember that safety comes first.  The safety of you and your family always comes above everything else. It’s okay to reach your destination a little late, as long as everyone arrives safely.