Jul

16

2010

Summer Road Trip Safety

Claims Consultant Chris Cloude

Author: Chris Cloude

We are now well into summer and that means traveling to the beaches, mountains or your other favorite destination. Before you ever leave the driveway, however, there are several steps that you can take to make your trip safer. There are also steps you can take while driving that will ensure your safety.

  1. Plan your trip and go over your route prior to leaving home. Allow time for stops. Do not rush. It is better to arrive at your destination a little bit later than not at all.
  2. Visually check your vehicle. Before a long trip, take your vehicle to your mechanic to have the cooling system, fluid levels and air conditioning system checked.
  3. Just prior to leaving, check your tire pressure to verify the pressure is at the level recommended by the tire manufacturer. (Most tires have the recommended maximum pressure molded into the side of the tire). If your tires are improperly inflated, the results can range from poor fuel mileage to – in a worst case scenario – a sudden blowout. If you are towing a trailer, it is important to check the pressure in the trailer tires as well. In addition, make sure the bearings in the trailer tires are properly greased. Many vacations have been brought to an abrupt halt – or worse – by burned out bearings on a trailer.
  4. Carry flares in your vehicle in case you do suffer a flat tire or mechanical failure. If you have to pull off of the roadway, make sure you pull off a safe distance from the travel lanes and light flares to alert other motorists. If there is a limited distance to pull off, then get everyone out of the car and wait further off the roadway for help to arrive.
  5. Keep your cell phone available and fully charged in case you need to call for emergency help.
  6. Most importantly, use common sense when traveling and be a courteous driver. Avoid cellphone use, eating, drinking or other distractions while you are driving. PA attention and leave a safe following distance.

These tips should help you have an enjoyable road trip and arrive at your destination safely.

Have a happy and safe summer!

About the Author: Chris Cloude is a claims consulting with the Virginia personal injury law firm of Allen & Allen. Working under the supervision of Fredericksburg car accident attorney Edward Allen, Chris helps clients handle their personal injury claims.