Summertime is here, and many families are planning to head out on road trips to their favorite sunny destinations. Whether you’re camping, heading to the lake or going for a day trip, it’s important to make sure you are fully prepared before hitting the road.
Attorney Mike White recently joined Alabama Live Host Tonya Terry to speak about what you should do before going on a trip. These simple tips help ensure everyone gets to their destinations safely and enjoys themselves.
1) Schedule Car Maintenance Appointments
Taking care of your car and making sure it is serviced properly and regularly is crucial. Mike advised that drivers should check their tires before leaving town, get them rotated, and make sure they are inflated correctly.
It’s also important to keep up with regular oil changes and have your battery checked. By doing so, your car will be running smoothly and you will have peace of mind before going on your trip.
2) Create an Emergency Kit
Do you have emergency items in your car? You never know what could happen on the road, which is why it’s important to have safety items in your car at all times. Here is an example of what you should pack.
- Cell Phone Chargers
- Flashlight
- Jumper Cables
- Tire Pressure Gauge
- First-Aid Kit
- Water
- Non-Perishable Snacks
- Blankets
As Tonya stated, make sure to replenish the supply of items, such as water and non-perishable snacks between trips.
3) Keep Your Children Safe
Before leaving for your trips, make sure all car seats are installed correctly and safely. If you need to make a stop, even if you think it’s a short errand, always take your child with you as you should never leave children in a car unattended.
You should also ensure everyone is wearing a seat belt correctly, and don’t leave for a trip until everyone is buckled up.
4) Take Regular Breaks
On long road trips, it is easy to lose focus and become tired. That’s why drivers should take regular breaks, whether that’s to a convenience store or a restaurant. If you are getting tired, switch off with another responsible driver.
If you have a long trip, you may think about splitting it up over two days and staying in a hotel. You can plan ahead and book a hotel that is halfway to your destination. With rest, you’ll be a more alert and safer driver.
5) Avoid Distractions
The number one rule of driving is to keep your eyes on the road at all times and avoid distractions. You should set up your GPS before you leave for your trip, and avoid using your phone. If you must make a call, use a Bluetooth device or pull over safely.
Do you have children in the car? Remember to keep your eyes on the road when talking to passengers and don’t look backward. A second of your eyes off the road could cause an accident.
Have a Safe Trip!
We hope that by following these tips, you and your family will have a safe and fun road trip together.
We Can Help
If you or a loved one are seriously injured in a car accident that was not your fault, call the experienced Alabama car accident attorneys at Floyd Hunter at 334-523-8150.
When you call, you’ll receive a FREE case evaluation. There is never an attorney’s fee due upfront, and we don’t get paid until you do. It’s that simple.
We will fight to protect your rights to the fair insurance settlement that you deserve when injured in a motor vehicle accident. Call Floyd Hunter Injury Law for a Free Legal Consultation at 334-523-8150.
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