Stay safe this summer: Road trip guidelines you need to know

Rising temperatures during the summer months increase the risk of vehicle breakdowns

Last updated: July 29, 2025 | 13:08

2 MIN READ

Stay safe this summer: Road trip guidelines you need to know

Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Interior has issued a set of safety guidelines for motorists journeying by road, as part of its annual “Summer Without Accidents” campaign. The ministry said that rising temperatures and heavy travel during the summer months increase the risk of vehicle breakdowns and accidents and urged drivers to make thorough preparations before setting out on long trips.

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To reduce risks and ensure safer roads, the ministry advised motorists to take the following steps before they travel:

Carry out regular vehicle maintenance.
Drivers are urged to have their cars inspected and serviced at authorised centres to ensure that all components are in good working order before embarking on long journeys.
Check the engine cooling system.
High temperatures place extra strain on the engine. The ministry stressed the importance of inspecting the cooling system, including coolant levels and hoses, to prevent overheating.
Verify the condition of tyres and brakes.
Worn tyres or faulty brakes can be fatal, especially when travelling at high speeds. Motorists are advised to check tyre pressure and tread depth and to ensure that brake pads and discs are functioning effectively.
Ensure that all vehicle lights are working.
Functional headlights, brake lights and turn signals are critical for safe driving, particularly at night or in adverse weather conditions.
Check radiator water levels to avoid fires.
Low radiator water can lead to engine overheating, which in turn can cause fires. The ministry urged drivers to keep these levels in check throughout the trip.
Inspect engine oil. Drivers are also encouraged to examine engine oil levels and quality, replacing it if necessary, as a well-lubricated engine is essential for preventing mechanical failures on the road.

Officials emphasised that these precautions, simple as they may seem, can make a significant difference in avoiding road accidents and ensuring a safe summer travel season.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.