As Christmas approaches, more Australians hit the road to visit family, head away on holidays and squeeze in last-minute shopping trips.
All that extra traffic, combined with fatigue, rushing, distraction and celebrations, means the risk of a bingle or crash increases at this time of year.
Over recent festive periods, police and road safety agencies have reported hundreds of crashes in just a couple of weeks, including many non-fatal “panel damage” accidents that still ruin holidays and strain family budgets. Even at lower speeds, a moment’s inattention in a crowded car park or on a busy highway can leave you with a damaged bumper, scraped doors or a crumpled bonnet.
At Erin Panel Works, we see first-hand how quickly a joyful Christmas road trip can turn into stress when a car ends up in our workshop instead of the driveway at home. While the team is always here to help with high-quality repairs, colour matching and dealing with insurers, the goal is for you not to need us over the holidays.
This Christmas, a few simple habits can make a big difference:
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Allow extra time so you are not tempted to speed or take risks in traffic.
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Share the driving, take regular breaks and avoid driving tired, especially on longer trips to see family.
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Plan ahead for celebrations by organising a designated driver or alternative transport if you are drinking.
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Stay patient in car parks and shopping centres, where low-speed nose-to-tail crashes are common.
From everyone at Erin Panel Works, have a safe and happy Christmas and New Year. Drive carefully, look out for each other on the roads, and let this festive season be remembered for good times together – not for an unexpected trip to the panel beater.
This has been a big year of change and growth for Erin Panel Works. Our team has shown tremendous professional development, and we’re incredibly proud of how far we’ve come.
Most importantly, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our loyal customers. Your trust, support and word-of-mouth recommendations have been the driving force behind our continued success. We wouldn’t be where we are today without you.
We wish you all a safe, happy and relaxing Christmas break. Enjoy the festivities, drive safely, and we look forward to seeing you in the new year!
Scott & Katie Cronk & the team.