Press Release

The RACT continues its free program of winter safety checks on cars this week with free checks on Wednesday, July 14, at Shoreline Shopping Centre at Howrah. RACT technicians will be on hand between 10am and 1pm.

So far, RACT technicians have conducted five checks in southern Tasmania, and the free checks move to the north this week, commencing with Launceston Kmart Racecourse Crescent on Thursday (July 15^th).

"Tyres are still a major issue in our checks," said Darren Moody, RACT General Manager Roadside and Technical Services. "So far we've found that one in five tyres aren't in a safe condition.

"We've also adjusted 90% of the child restraints we have inspected, with one completely unsafe. It had no top tether strap and was well over the age recommended by manufacturers for safe use."

RACT technicians have also noticed that many seat belts - especially the driver's belt - are showing signs of fraying and webbing damage as a result of being jammed in doors. They have also noticed a large percentage of batteries which are marginal on performance, and could fail any time, especially on cold mornings.

For further information: please contact Darren Moody on 0419 893 900.

ENDS   12 July 2010