Tips to Enter Your Car and Drive Safely in the Season of Coronavirus Pandemic

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the whole world was forced to stay indoors and isolate for months. Everyone faced the unprecedented onslaught of the pandemic, and now, as things are slowly returning to normal, people have resumed their daily activities and settled back into old routines. The most common part of this routine is driving- whether it is going to work, grocery shopping or performing other unavoidable tasks.

Even though a car is a mobile, isolated unit, the chances of contracting the COVID-19 pandemic are never zero. Most of us can limit driving to the bare minimum, but those whose workplaces have reopened have no alternative but to drive their car, as it is safer than taking public transport. Besides, people have also started travelling with their friends and families and going on road trips. How can you ensure that your safety is not compromised while driving?

The most important aspect to remember is that your vehicle can become the gateway to contracting the COVID-19 virus, not just for the driver, but also for their family. Maintaining a safe and sanitised vehicle is crucial for both on and off-road safety. Things such as car glass, interiors and exteriors require special maintenance during the pandemic. Keep reading to know about some tried and tested methods you can employ to drive safely during the coronavirus pandemic.

Regularly Disinfect Your Car

Just like every other surface, your car needs to undergo regular sanitisation and disinfection as a preventive measure to maintain hygiene. Disinfect every car surface that you come in contact with while driving. Disinfect the steering wheel, gear stick, car seats, window control buttons, internal and external handles, hand brake, infotainment controls, armrest, and every other surface you come in contact with.

Take this sanitisation very seriously, and disinfect your car before getting in, even if it has been standing idle for many days. You can use any spray sanitiser available in the market and follow the spray-wipe technique to clean your car. Disinfecting surface wipes are also available and can be used as an effective measure against the virus.

Never Take Off Your Face Mask

In most Indian states, wearing a face mask inside the car is mandatory. The state can also charge a hefty fine for defaulters. Moreover, a face mask acts as a protective agent for you and other passengers in the car. It significantly reduces the risk of the virus being transferred from one person to another. Wearing a face mask inside the car is a necessity if you are travelling with one or more persons. Furthermore, if you are transporting persons who show acute symptoms of the virus, it becomes all the more vital to keep on your face mask.

During long rides, it is increasingly crucial not to take off the mask, as prolonged exposure to naked air can conveniently act as a contaminant. You can wear masks made out of cloth, surgical masks or other masks that comply with your local guidelines.

Crack Open Your Car Windows

Studies have shown that the COVID-19 virus can survive for up to three hours in the air, which is much less as compared to other surfaces made of plastic, steel, etc. Roll down your windows in between rides to allow for proper ventilation and airing out of the car as an extra precaution. Also, doctors advise that you should thoroughly air out your car after cleaning it.

Stay Updated with Public Health Recommendations

Lastly, keep track of the latest news and guidelines regarding road travel during the pandemic in your area. Follow the generalised public safety ethics of wearing a mask at all times, carrying a sanitiser, disinfecting your car at regular intervals and maintaining six feet of social distance at all times. In addition, if you park your car in public parking lots or busy areas, make sure to sanitise the high-touch exteriors of the vehicle. These include the door handles, car glass and rear-view mirrors.

Over to You 

The state governments and public health officials are still trying to keep car travel to a minimum, but if you must drive, then make sure to follow all the steps mentioned above to upkeep the safety and hygiene recommendations.

Further, if you wish to get car glass services during the pandemic, then contact AIS Windshield Experts for services that have a league of their own. Get access to top-class windshield repair and replacement services in accordance with the health safety guidelines. Visit the AIS Windshield Experts website or call us on the toll-free number 1800-1026364 to locate the outlet nearest to your location. We provide doorstep services all over India, so you can avail of the best services without stepping out of your home!