Road trip season is finally upon us! But before you take off for your vacation with your family or friends, it is important to make sure you’ve taken the appropriate steps to ensure it goes as smoothly and safely as possible.
Below are some tips to consider before you depart on your big summer road trip:
- Stock your emergency kit: Be sure you’ve stocked your vehicle with the necessary emergency supplies before you head off. Any vehicle emergency kit should include a small flashlight, a first aid kit, a cell phone charger (a portable one fi you have one), water bottles and some simple tools. It’s also a good idea to have some jumper cables and a blanket in case you get stranded at night.
- Know the dangers of the road: You must maintain constant vigilance of your surroundings and know what is most likely to be a danger to you while on the road. Distracted drivers are a big one these days, but it’s also important to slow down and be cautious in construction zones. In more rural areas, it’s important to notice animal crossing signs or other hazard notifications.
- Plan your route ahead of time: Planning your route thoroughly in advance can help you avoid potential hazards and help you feel more comfortable with your journey. Have your GPS already loaded with your destination, know where you intend to stop and set your playlist before you go.
- Learn some simple skills: If you are going to be driving a long distance, it’s a good idea to know a few simple car maintenance skills, such as changing a tire, checking the air pressure/adding air, adding windshield wiper fluid and changing windshield wiper blades.
For more tips to help you stay safe on your summer road trip, speak with an experienced Sarasota auto accident lawyer at Goldman Babboni Fernandez & Walsh.