Around the world, communities will recognize the official start to the Year of the Rat with festivals, parties and family events. — Photo Credit: iStock

Lunar New Year: safe driving tips

Jan 9, 2020

Lunar New Year begins on Saturday January 25, with celebrations expected to continue until Saturday February 8. Around the world, communities will recognize the official start to the Year of the Rat with festivals, parties and family events. To help everyone get to their destinations safely, eDriving provides the following Lunar New Year safe driving tips:

Travel by public transport where possible to avoid driving/ riding in heavy traffic.
If driving, plan your route in advance, checking traffic/ weather updates before you set off. Allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.
Carry out vehicle checks, including fluid levels, fuel, lights, tire pressures, tire condition, brakes, battery and wiper blades. Consult a professional if you’re unsure how to carry out any checks. Pack an emergency kit that includes a blanket, de-icer, water, non-perishable food, car charger for your phone, warning triangle, basic first-aid kit, flashlight.
Wear a helmet and other suitable safety clothing if riding a two-wheeler.
Wear your seat belt – and make sure everyone else in your vehicle wears theirs too.
Eliminate the potential to be distracted during your trip by putting your phone away and setting up GPS before you drive. Be aware of external distractions too, such as fireworks and Chinese lanterns; ask passengers not to point these out while you’re driving. See our Distracted Driving Best Practice Guide.
Look out for pedestrians out celebrating. Expect more people on foot than usual; and remember that they could be impaired.
If you are drinking alcohol, don’t drive. Plan ahead for a safe ride home, whether it is a taxi, a lift with a sober friend or a ride share. Or, consider staying the night instead. Remember the “morning after” effect too; you could still be impaired the morning after drinking alcohol.
Avoid driving tired. If you have a long way to travel, get a good night’s sleep beforehand. If you’re tired from partying, get enough rest before you get back behind the wheel. See our Fatigue Best Practice Guide.
Plan rest stops during trips to stretch your legs/ have a snack/ give young passengers a break. You might even plan to share out the driving with a family member or friend.