Don't turn your Undas trip into a car horror story

Avoid road mishaps with pre-trip checks

- By IÑIGO S. ROCES

Did you know that the word, Undas, itself is believed to come from the Spanish word, honrar? Others believe it as an acronym, also Spanish in origin, from the phrase, “UNos Dias de los Almas y de los Santos,” meaning “Days of the Souls and of the Saints.”

For many, it means long drives, packed highways, and unpredictable road conditions. As thousands of Filipinos prepare to travel to the provinces this season, a safe journey begins with preparation.

Don't let your next Undas trip turn into a car horror story you tell the following year. Prepare your vehicle beforehand with these tips.

You're just a few kilometers away from your destination when you hear a loud bang ang several thuds as you slow down. It turns out your tire has popped. This classic road mishap can throw off your entire schedule.

That's why it's important to inspect your tires before traveling. Make sure they're filled to the proper pressure and don't forget to check if your spare tire, jack, and tools are in the car too. A quick check on your tires' condition before the trip can spare you hours of roadside trouble.

Your trip has gone well so far, but after a short stopover, you return to your car, only to find that it won't start. A weak or drained battery is a common occurrence during on long drives after cars have sat idle just days before the trip.