Now that the lockdown is gradually being lifted across the country, the time to start driving and hitting the road for work or important errands are at hand. While everyone is concerned about health and safety, it’s equally crucial to pay attention to your car’s condition before heading out and to keep in mind quarantine protocols in different cities to avoid the inconvenience of being refused entry or worse, being accosted by authorities.
AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, offers helpful car maintenance and safety reminders amid the pandemic.
Check your car. A dormant car can collect dust in parts like the suspension, brakes, and air filter. The tires may also deflate and degrade. Not using your car over time may also result in problems like battery corrosion. To prevent this, disconnect the battery or turn the engine on occasionally. If you haven’t driven your car in the past few months due to the community quarantine, make sure to check it first before driving it around again.
Sanitize your car. Some experts say that the COVID-19 virus may linger on surfaces so to be on the safe side, it may be best to disinfect the inside and outside of your car. You can use isopropyl alcohol or disinfecting wipes to clean high-touch surfaces, including but not limited to the steering wheel, center console, and door handles. Do this after a drive.
Have your documents ready. As part of the community quarantine, authorities have set up several checkpoints across different cities and provinces. Law enforcers require you to present quarantine and travel passes and proof of identity before you’ll be allowed to continue to your destination. Employees are required to present company ID and certificate of employment. To prevent any trouble and avoid wasting time, it would be best to prepare all needed documents in a single envelope to take with you every time you go out.
Check passenger regulations. Social distancing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and some cities may control the number of passengers per car. In case you are in a car with someone else, make sure that you are at least a seat apart from each other.
Drive safely. Ensure that you observe the speed limit and other traffic rules. Aside from driving safely, it is vital that you have access to an emergency line at all times, especially when you’re on the road. In case you have car trouble or an emergency needing police, ambulance or fire assistance, AXA Rescue Line can give you 24/7 free and easy access to emergency and roadside services. Rescue Line is available to all with the Emma by AXA app, which you can download for free on the Google Play or AppStore.
Make sure your car is insured. A lot of unexpected things can happen on the road. That is why good car insurance policy is a must. AXA’s Car Insurance Online can protect you and your car with customizable coverage for loss or damage, third-person liability, and natural calamities. Policyholders also have access to 24/7 emergency roadside assistance. The plan even allows for hassle-free filing of claims, which can be done straight from your mobile phone.
Follow these tips and consider availing of AXA’s Car Insurance Online and Rescue Line so you can drive confidently to your destination. To know more about these AXA products, visit https://www.axa.com.ph.