Weekend of May 8th: Some tips for driving safely

On the occasion of this May 8th weekend, Mobiwisy offers you some tips to travel the roads of France with peace of mind.

This May 8th weekend is an opportunity for many of you to enjoy a timeless moment with your family or friends. Therefore, we offer you some practical advice to have a good time on the road. Incidentally, this will reduce your stress while driving, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and your journey!

Unfortunately, this extended weekend will mark the end of the school holidays for students in zone C. Before that, you can still enjoy a few more days together on the roads of France. The mild temperatures forecasted for this weekend will likely make you smile, but we want to ensure your safety on the road!

To this end, we have categorized vigilance tips into several sections to make your task easier. You are probably already applying all these tips, but a reminder from time to time is always good!

Car maintenance, an important safety element

As always before a trip or a long journey, check the condition of your car. A visual and functional check of your vehicle’s exterior and interior will help you anticipate your trip safely. If needed, visit your mechanic for a mechanical inspection. A “degreasing” and an engine oil change might be necessary!

Additionally, thoroughly check your tires. This is often overlooked but very important for your safety and that of your passengers. Car manufacturers recommend inflating tires to the pressure specified in the user manual or on the edge of the door. Tires must be inflated according to the vehicle’s load.

Indeed, under- or over-inflated tires can cause significant loss of grip and premature tire wear. According to Bridgestone, under- or over-inflated tires can influence the braking efficiency of the car. On the road, they can mean the difference between a minor incident and an accident…

Talking about brakes, check their condition thoroughly. According to the garage network Speedy, replacing brake pads is recommended every 15,000 km or as soon as you notice any anomaly. Indicators include increased braking distance, a brake warning light, or squealing noises. At that point, book a maintenance appointment as soon as possible so your mechanic can inspect the braking system!

Planning your route means anticipating problems

Choosing to undertake a long trip away from home is always a puzzle. You need to consider many small details such as packing your luggage, home maintenance before departure, and possibly lending your pet if you can’t take it along. However, one element is sometimes overlooked to your own detriment: trip planning. With good preparation and anticipation, you can avoid long traffic jams at tolls and on French roads.

For this, we recommend using a GPS that provides real-time information (such as Coyote or Waze). Most modern cars are equipped with a GPS integrated into their infotainment system, but these are often less optimized than Coyote or Waze.

For more detailed information on Vinci, APRR/AREA, and Sanef motorways, the radio frequency 107.7 will keep you updated on real-time events. This radio frequency provides information about incidents, including the exact kilometer mark. This way, you can anticipate traffic difficulties and navigate around them if necessary.

For electric vehicle drivers, planning your route is also about anticipating battery depletion. The European Union will require charging stations every 60 km by 2025 on major highways, but until then, you need to plan your recharges carefully. Not all stations are equipped with chargers, and they are often crowded. Fortunately, apps like ChargeMap and Waze list these charging stations for you.

Estimating your expenses during the trip saves worries

Going on vacation can sometimes be costly. Mobiwisy has gathered some tips and apps to help you budget your expenses during the journey.

First, the website autoroutes.fr offers an interactive map allowing you to calculate toll costs on most French highways. Some networks, like Brittany and the Massif Central, are not yet included, but soon it will be!

For frequent highway users, you can also opt for an electronic toll pass. Ulys (Vinci Autoroutes) offers various plans tailored to your needs, including a card for electric vehicle charging stations. Be careful: this card only grants access to the charger, you will need to pay for the actual recharging.

At rest areas, food purchases can be one of the most significant expenses during a trip. A triangular sandwich can cost more than 6 euros, not including the drink or dessert. A good tip is to buy your meals before entering the highway or to exit and purchase them at a supermarket en route. Remember to take breaks every two hours for your well-being and your focus on the road!

A summary of our tips for a safe journey

Here is what we recommend for this last Easter holiday weekend:

• Check your car’s condition (interior, exterior, tires, and brakes)
• Plan stops along the way and listen to the radio (107.7) or use your GPS
• Anticipate battery depletion or fuel failure
• Estimate your trip expenses

Finally, be patient and courteous to everyone you meet on the way, whether during departure or return! Show kindness and politeness to those working this weekend. Mobiwisy wishes you a safe and pleasant trip!

Also read: How to Travel with Your Dog Safely?