As the festive season of Hari Raya Aidilfitri approaches, it is time for many Malaysians to plan their balik kampung trips in anticipation of the festivities with their loved ones. It is important to ensure that you are prepared for your drive home, as well as what to do to ensure your safety while making your way back to your hometown.

Taking the right preparations will aid you in navigating the long drive and heavy traffic that may arise. Here are some tips to make your balik kampung trip as enjoyable and safe as possible.

  

Before Your Balik Kampung Drive

Plan your journey

You'll want to ensure that the route you're planning to take is safe and that there are no obstructions or hazards. Also remember to check the weather conditions before heading out, take into account the expected traffic, and make sure you have enough food and water for the journey.

  

Schedule a car checkup

It is important to ensure that your car is in good condition before the trip. Some of the essential things that you need to check are your brakes, oil, water and tyre pressure levels. Remember to fuel up before hitting the road as there may be long queues at petrol stations at rest stops along the way.

  

Pack for emergencies

As a precaution, bring along an emergency kit for yourself and your car. You should have a power bank, jumper cables and car jack and make sure that your spare tyre is functioning.

  

Review your insurance and road tax validity

Make sure your insurance and road tax are not expired so you are fully protected while on the road. If it is going to expire soon, it is advisable to renew it before your journey, so you're not stranded in case anything happens on the road.

If you are a Kurnia customer, you can easily renew your car insurance and road tax in one transaction through our website, by walking into any of our branches nationwide or contacting your preferred agent.

  

Check your house

Go through your house before leaving and check whether all the doors and windows are securely locked. If you have an alarm system, remember to switch on the alarms during your absence. Put perishable items in the fridge to avoid a pest infestation and remember to switch off unnecessary electrical items to avoid running up a high electricity bill.

  

Prepare for tolls

To avoid any hiccups on the road, ascertain that you have sufficient balance in your card or e-wallet for the highway tolls.

  

Driving Safely on The Road

Follow the speed limit and traffic laws

Obey the speed limit and traffic laws at all times, including wearing your seatbelts. This will help to reduce the risk of accidents. Planning ahead will give you adequate time for your journey home and reduce the need to speed.

  

Keep your eyes on the road

It is crucial to keep your eyes on the road and not be distracted by your phone or other passengers. If you need to make an urgent phone call, pull over to a safe location before you do so.

   

Be aware of your surroundings

Be vigilant and aware of other vehicles and pedestrians on the road and give yourself enough time to react if necessary. Minimise any distractions by preparing yourself and your vehicle before you start the journey.

  

Stay sober

Do not drive if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This is not only dangerous, but also illegal. Check your medications, as some may cause drowsiness or have warnings not to operate heavy machinery after consuming them.

  

Be patient

Do not engage in dangerous driving such as tailgating or speeding and only overtake other vehicles when it's safe to do so.

  

Take breaks as needed

A long drive can take a toll on the most vigilant driver and cause microsleeping episodes. To combat this, take turns driving with your passengers or stop at rest areas for a break before continuing your journey.

  

Other Important Tips for Your Balik Kampung Journey

Roadside assistance

Sometimes the unexpected can happen, even if you take all the necessary precautions. So it's important to know what to do if you encounter a road accident, or if you have a vehicle breakdown and need your car towed.

  

Know your coverage

Know what you are covered for when it comes to roadside assistance. Keep your roadside assistance contact details handy as well. For Kurnia Comprehensive policyholders, you can call our 24-hour toll-free Kurnia Auto Assist hotline at 1 800 88 3833 or download our One Touch app for complimentary roadside assistance.

  

Don't fall for towing scams

It's common to see people approach car accident or breakdown victims at the scene and offer towing or repair services at cheap rates. However, they are likely to go back on their word and charge you outrageous fees once you've agreed to let them take your car.

  

Making a claim

If you need to make a claim after an accident, here's what you need to do.

1. Take pictures

Take pictures of the accident scene and any damage that has been done. Gather evidence such as details of any injuries sustained as well. This will be useful when making a claim.

  

2. Record details

Record the details of the other party involved, such as their name, address, contact number, NRIC, car registration number, insurer and get any witnesses' info as well.

  

3. Report the accident to the police

Make sure to report the accident to the police and get a certified copy. You will need to give this to your insurer when you file a claim with them.

  

4. File an insurance claim

Contact your insurance provider to make a claim and provide any necessary documents or evidence that you have to support your claim.

  

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Disclaimer: This blog post is strictly for informational purposes, and should not be taken as advice of any kind. Kurnia disclaims all responsibility for any losses resulting from reliance on the information contained in this article.