b'INSURANCEA key item to check before you set off, isEven after you have comfortably ticked off all the Weight Limits and Distribution When on the roadunderstanding the weights limits of your vehicle,required safety checks, the next step is to actually the trailer and how the weight is distributed. Thedrive and reach your destination safely. There are a acronyms all sound similar, but they are importantfew key tips to follow when on the road to ensure a to understanding the loads a vehicle can take on thesafe trip for you and your passengers.road. Factor in the extra length of your trailer when Many drivers have made mistakes with these in thetaking tight turns or when overtaking other past and have either copped a large fine from thevehicles.authorities or have been involved in an accidentApply the accelerator, brakes and steering which may have been avoided. It is easy to overloadsmoothly to avoid trailer sway.your vehicle when the family, food, dogs, andMaintain a longer distance than normal to the car luggage is loaded up. in front, to allow for the extra stopping distance Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of a 4WD is therequired.manufacturers maximum net weight of the vehicle.Engage lower gears if possible when descending, You can find this easily by googling your vehicleto avoid brake strainmodel or checking the owners manual. This is theAnd finally, once you reach your destination, use a total weight of the empty car, the ball load of anypassenger (if possible) to assist with parking the trailer being towed, passengers, fuel, accessories,car.and luggage. Before you hit the road you should check the laws Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) is the total weight of aand regulations for each state you are commuting trailer, fully loaded when it is hitched to the towin to ensure your towed vehicle is roadworthy, that vehicle. Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) is the weightyou have followed the appropriate weight limits, and of the trailer when it is unhitched from the towcorrectly displayed your registration. vehicle whilst sitting on its jockey wheel or stand. Its important to never exceed the rated GTM or ATMWhile these tips only scratch the surface of what of your trailer. there is to know about towing safety, we hope these Gross Combination Mass (GCM) is the total weighttips give you the inspiration to start planning your of the towed vehicle and your vehicle, plus anynext 4WD towing adventure and ensure its a safe payload. It is important to note, that when you areone!towing at or near the maximum tow rating, the GCM is critical to determining how much you can carry. Physical Health Benefits Plasma donations, in particular, can be a game-for Donors changer. Plasma is rich in antibodies and proteins, contributing to a strengthened immune system. This Each donation includes thorough physicalbecomes increasingly crucial as individuals age and may checks and blood tests. Great for peopleexperience a decline in immune function. By donating wait until theyre sick to see their doctor, orplasma, older donors actively contribute to their own maybe just relying on annual check-ups. For regularwell-being while saving lives.donors, this means potential irregularities or changes in health are detected early, leading to promptJump on the website www.lifeblood.com.au or phone medical attention. Whats even more convenient isHow to Get Ino book a donation.volvedthat donors receive their health check results directly131495 t Contact your localthrough the Donate Blood app, empowering them withJoining the Four Wheel Drive Lifeblood Team not crucial insights into their well-being. Its a win-win only fosters a sense of community but also provides adealer for a test drivecontribute to the community and keep tabs on yourunique opportunity to make a collective impact. The health with each life-saving donation. camaraderie among team members creates a supportive For those aged 50 and above, engaging in regularenvironment where individuals efforts count towards blood and plasma donations can have significantsomething bigger. Simply mention the team at your next health benefits. Donating blood helps reduce thedonation or join online.risk of cardiovascular diseases by promoting healthyFor those who want to take it a step further, organizing a blood flow and maintaining optimal blood viscosity.presentation or group donation activity within your club Moreover, it stimulates the production of new bloodcan be a rewarding experience. Reach out to Ash from cells, which can be particularly beneficial for olderLifeblood at ahales@redcrossblood.org.au for assistance individuals. or resources. Lets make 2024 our biggest year yet.30 TRACKWATCH|June 2024'