The final stage of lockdown easing may have been delayed, but with hundreds of thousands of vaccinations taking place every day the revised July 19th date should see the end of restrictions – and that means more reasons to get in the car and drive.
By then, it will be hoped either that the third wave has petered out, or, perhaps more likely, that it will simply crash against a sea wall of immunity. If so, more folk will be driving off to watch sport, go to the theatre and many more activities, on top of all the things they can do already.
However, as some form of normality is nearing, a question arises: What do people need to do to be prepared for that first post-pandemic road trip?
The Eastern Daily Press has just delivered its own verdict on the topic, with some help from local insurance firm A-Plan. The basic answer is that not much will be different to past trips. It is simply a case of making sure you are as prepared as you would ever be, especially if driving abroad. Moreover, Brexit will be more of an issue than Covid.
Many of the tips are quite basic: People need to make sure their car has had its MOT, is fully insured, taxed and one’s driving licence is up-to-date. Anyone travelling overseas (when this is possible again) should also check their passport is up to date and that they have a driver’s green card when motoring in the EU, since UK licences no longer apply following Brexit.
This little list does not mention maintenance issues, but it is of course important to ensure your vehicle is in good order. Indeed, you may need to make use of windscreen replacement services to pass your MOT, as a cracked windscreen is grounds for failing your vehicle, as well as being likely to cause you to incur points on your licence and a fine.
After months of staying at home or local, there will certainly be many people keen to take a road trip, either at home or abroad. After all, even a domestic jaunt while so much of the world is off-limits will provide a great change from the norm. But all that could be spoiled if there are problems with your car.
Among those keen to take a trip include car show presenter Becky Evans, who revealed details to the Daily Mail of the plans she and her father have to hop in her red 1983 BMW and get around the country. Visiting friends in various places will be high on the agenda, as will an exploration of Cornwall.
The car is a restored model and Ms Evans noted that she is a bit more cautious when taking a road trip than she was in her younger days, which means a few precautions are in order. She said: “I’m taking a small selection of tools, some emergency food, snacks and drinks and the essentials for any weekend away: a bluetooth speaker!”
Of course, everyone will need to be prepared for their next road trip, whether they are aiming for Cornwall or Calais. But it’s always vital to check the windscreen is in good shape first.
