WE 4 YOU
Each and every motorway run by the ASTM-SIAS is monitored from a traffic control centre at your disposal 24/7. The emergency call boxes put the users in direct contact with an operator at the traffic control centre, who is able to detect the call immediately and send forward any emergency unit you may need: the ASTM-SIAS Road user service, Road Police, first aid service (118), or the Firebrigades (115). The national authorities and ASTM-SIAS Operators have gradually improved such user services through International cooperation within the framework of European Programs, an example being the program called EasyWay, co-funded by the EU Commission (DG Move), aiming at improving traffic and emergency management through the implementation of intelligent transportation systems.
The traffic user service operators and Road Police officers are equipped with message signs, flashlights and other tools to control traffic flows in full safety, even in case of accidents and vehicle breakdown.
We are ready to assist you. Neverthless, by checking your vehicle before leaving, you can prevent the use of these services avoiding risks and it is far better.
In case of breakdown, wear your reflective jacket, protect your vehicle, signal your breakdown by means of your warning triangle to keep the other drivers safe and wait for the rescuers in a safe place. Warning! If you decide to jump over the crash barrier, always check what the landscape is like on the other side. You might be on a road bridge or on a overpass or very steep slope, so be extremely careful, especially at night.
When?
Before leaving
What?
It is appropriate to carry out preliminary checks to check the proper functioning of the vehicle. What do you need to check?
Tyre pressure, taking care to check also the wheel/spare wheel; tread consumption and the wear of the tyre "sides". Always remember that driving with tyres not in perfect condition is very dangerous! Do not leave with the fuel quantity indicator on! Always check the fuel level and fill up the tank, and avoid the risk of a sudden breakdown on the carriageway.
Carry out rigorous inspections also to the air-conditioning and the engine cooling systems, to the cooling liquid thermometer and the light indicating that dangerous temperatures are about to be reached.
Remember also to fill the "windscreen liquid" tank and to check the windscreen wipers which should be replaced every year because rubber deteriorates over time. Before leaving, verify nothing is missing on board: vehicle registration, insurance certificate, green card (if you go abroad), the warning triangle to signal a breakdown, jack and spanners for the wheels bolts. A pair of work gloves are also useful and, if you are travelling by night, a torch and a kit of spare lamps are indispensable.
Check also the engine, gearbox, brakes and, last but not least, the engine coolant oil levels, although modern cars consume little lubricant.
Change the oil filter, if need be, and the diesel filter (if you have a diesel vehicle). If your car has covered more than 30,000 km (or it is older than 5 years) we recommend that you take a look at the distribution belt. The rupture of the belt while driving could cause serious as well as expensive damage to the engine block, in addition to exposing you to dangers. If it is the case, take your car to a garage and do not hesitate to spend a little extra money to prevent problems, rather than suffering the consequences later.
Why?
In order not to be forced to make the journey longer for you and the people who are with you, exposing you and the others to troubles and risks.
Road Code
ART. 140 (PRINCIPIO INFORMATORE DELLA CIRCOLAZIONE)