Are You Sitting Comfortably?

With many drivers taking to the road this weekend for the May Bank Holiday, we offer welcome advice from IAM Roadsmart on avoiding muscle aches. 

We don't always think about our posture while driving despite spending many hours at the wheel. 
Here are some driving tips from IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman.

 

Be mindful of your posture

As a driver it’s important to avoid positions that can cause muscle ache. Before you move off, try adjusting your car seat to a secure position that allows you to stay alert and maintain good visibility.
An incorrect seat position will not only be uncomfortable but may affect your ability to operate the vehicle controls.

Sometimes a nibble goes a long way

Pull over and have something to eat, but try and make sure that your snacks aren’t too sugar loaded – you may experience an energy crash later on.
Stay nourished and hydrated – your brain needs food to maintain concentration.

Wear the right attire

Avoid uncomfortable footwear that provides little sole support, such as high heels and especially flip flops.
In an event where you may need to brake firmly, the support of the soles of your shoes always helps.

Travel safe

It’s always a good idea to take out travel insurance so that you're covered in the event of an accident or emergency.

The Good Garage Scheme reminds motorists to have their cars checked at a local Good Garage Scheme member garage prior to a long journey for peace of mind.  Visit www.GoodGarageScheme.com to find one local to you and ask for a Holiday Check.

Get the games out!

Journeys do not always have to be dull and repetitive. Plan ahead and get some fun games organised for the younger ones on board. This will make the journey feel miles faster and smoother, allowing you to concentrate on your driving.

Richard Gladman is IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards.

IAM RoadSmart has a mission to make better drivers and riders in order to improve road safety, inspire confidence and make driving and riding enjoyable.

To find out more about IAM RoadSmart products and services visit www.IamRoadSmart.com


 

Are We There Yet?

"Are we there yet?"

 We all know how hard it is to keep children entertained in the car and with the school holidays upon us, the Good Garage Scheme would like to offer some tips to keep your younger passengers happy.

 Oldies but Goodies

• I Spy with my little eye... most of us have played "I Spy..." and this is still a firm favourite for many families and sure to take up a little time on the journey. 
• Sing along...why not try something different. If you are travelling to France, play some French music. The children may pick up a few new words.   
• Number Plate Games...there are many varieties; count the number plates with a particular letter, make a word using the last three letters, see who's quickest to add the numbers

New ideas

• Alphabet game:  Pack a shopping bag with plastic alphabet letters. Pass the bag around and ask each child to choose a letter without looking. They can then can say a word or country that begins with the letter.
• Name the capital: Print a page from the internet listing countries down one side and the capital cities down the other. Fold the page in half and take turns guessing the correct capital cities
• Make up a story: Each person takes a turn to add a sentence to story. If someone can write it down as you go, even better!
• Audio books...most local libraries have a good selection of books read by fantastic actors. Everyone can listen and you can even have intervals to stop and talk about the story.
• DVDs..a popular choice these days with the option of a portable DVD player. Make sure everything is charged before you pack.
• Little Geographers...print a colourful map of the journey with landmarks noted and give a copy to each child. Let them follow along and make their own notes. 

Food and Rest

Pack snacks and drinks in smaller packets using different containers especially for the holiday. This helps with rations and squabbles over quantities.

Plan to take more frequent rest stops and allow for a few extra minutes to play outdoors if possible.

The Good Garage Scheme wishes everyone a happy summer holiday and safe driving.