Hitting the open road when the days start getting warmer and longer has been a long-standing tradition for many families. Summer is a great time to finally get some much-needed relaxation and make family memories that will last a lifetime.
The last way you want to spend your road trip is stranded on the side of the road or getting involved in a car accident, so here are a few road trip tips to keep in mind before embarking on your family’s summer adventure:
1. Get a vehicle checkup.
Nothing puts more of a damper on your family vacation than an unexpected mechanical failure. Before you pack up and head out this summer, have your vehicle inspected, or give it a thorough checkup yourself. Inspect the tires, brakes, AC, belts and hoses, and vehicle fluids (oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid, etc.). It won’t take long, but it can save major time and hassles down the road.
2. Check that your license and insurance is up to date.
This may seem like a no-brainer, but sometimes it’s easy to forget about important documents like your car insurance policy and license. You want to double check that they are not expired—or will not expire on the road. That way you won’t get fined and penalized for driving without the proper documentation.
3. Plan manageable driving distances.
Drowsy driving is one of the biggest causes of car accidents on the road today. Drivers are especially susceptible to falling asleep behind the wheel during long road trips. To avoid this danger, allot adequate time for rest and breaks, take turns driving, and don’t try to cram too much driving into one day. Remember: it’s not about the destination, but the journey. So take your time and enjoy it.
4. Bring an emergency kit.
You never know when you might break down on the road. Even if you gave your car a checkup before you left, a small piece of debris can pop a tire or crack a windshield, leaving you stranded on a roadside. For these emergencies, bring a kit that at least contains the following items: water, flares, first-aid kit, jumper cables, flat tire tools, flashlight, non-perishable food, duct tape, rope, and batteries.
5. Never drink and drive.
Having fun is what road trips are all about, but remember to be safe when you are behind the wheel. It doesn’t matter which state you drive through, driving while intoxicated is illegal, irresponsible, and dangerous to you and your family.
6. Know what to do if you get involved in an accident.
In case the worst should happen and you are involved in a car accident, you should be prepared and know what steps you should take. Read our article “What to Do After a Car Accident” to learn more.
From the Denver personal injury attorneys at Babcock Law, we hope you have a fun family road trip this summer, and remember to stay safe out there and drive responsibly.