Insurance and motoring services provider Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) received an average of one call for help per minute in 2021, coming to the aid of more than 789,000 motorists in the state.
RACQ external communication manager Lauren Ritchie said the insurance and motoring services provider's patrols helped more than 268,700 Queenslanders with battery-related issues and more than 72,600 motorists with a flat tire.
“We all know how frustrating it can be to have a flat battery or tire disrupt your journey, but thankfully, our patrols were there 24/7, 365 days of the year to get drivers across the state back on the road,” Ritchie said in a statement.
RACV's insurance claims data covering January 2017 to December 2019 warned that Friday afternoons were the most common day and time of the week for crashes, with the sixth as the most dangerous date in the month to be on Queensland roads.
For 2022, Ritchie urged drivers to make a simple maintenance check once a month, including checking their vehicle's oil, water levels, and tires.
“This includes ensuring they have the correct air pressure, that there are no foreign objects in the rubber, and that the treads are in good condition,” she said. “To avoid your battery going flat, don't leave your lights, radio, or other accessories on when the engine is running, as this will drain your battery. Completing these checks will help you avoid the stress of a breakdown and help ensure your car is safe.”
Ritchie also advised motorists to keep their car keys safe at all times, noting the results of RACQ's latest data showing that its crews responded to an average of one call every 15 minutes from people who had locked themselves out of their car.
“Concerningly, we also rescued more than 1,800 children and pets locked in cars,” Ritchie added. “With scorching summer temperatures well and truly upon us, it's more important than ever to keep your keys on you and never give them to children to play with while you load the car.”
On the bright side, Ritchie offered assurance that RACQ's roadside assistance team is available to help 24/7.
