Safety Tips For Your Road Trip This Summer
Going on vacation may be the greatest adventure possible, but you should always know the safety tips for your road trip. Summer is ideally suited for the great outdoors. If you plan a vacation or a road trip, now is the best time to make it happen.
But remember that going on a trip often requires driving your vehicle or SUV over long distances, sometimes in poor conditions. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website, heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States. Therefore, it is vital to inspect your vehicle thoroughly before heading out.
Safety Tips to Take
The good news is that it takes only a few minutes of planning to ensure that your summer journey is as safe and relaxing as possible. Even if you already have personal auto insurance‒essential for all car owners‒pre-planning will help reduce the risk of weather-related accidents.
Plan your Trip
It’s surprising how quickly you could become dehydrated when traveling in extreme heat. You can increase your chances of staying cool and hydrated by avoiding busy highways and roads where you could get caught in a traffic jam.
Hunger can make heat stroke more likely and worsen its symptoms. Pack your favorite snacks and bring plenty of water to prevent discomfort.
Bring sunscreen and a hat. These can be helpful if your car breaks down and you have to await rescue in hot weather.
Preparing for Driving in Hot Weather
Remember to inspect the most vulnerable areas of your automobile before driving in the heat. The following tips will help ensure your car can complete an entire trip.
Inspect your fluids. Ensure your brake coolant, transmission, power steering, and fill your window washing fluid tanks.
You should also check your oil to ensure that it is clean and the levels are within recommended limits. If you’re going on a long drive, it might be best to get an oil change and have your fluids checked before heading out.
Examine your hoses and belts. Look for signs of cracking or excessive dryness and check to see that they haven’t come loose. You can also perform this check when you change your oil.
Remember that scorching heat can deplete your car battery as quickly as cold temperatures. Always check your battery to ensure it is working correctly and carries a sufficient charge.
Tire pressure changes with temperature. Keeping your tires properly inflated increases fuel efficiency. It helps you keep travel costs more manageable so you can enjoy more sights and amenities during your trip.
Make sure your air conditioner is working before you leave. Few things are more unpleasant than being in a hot car on a long drive on a hot summer day.
Stay within the speed limit at all times. It is just as important in hot weather as in cold and chilly conditions. Engines tend to work harder when temperatures rise, so there’s no sense in pushing them beyond their limits to save a bit on travel time.
Have a Travel Plan
Having your car break down in the middle of nowhere can be a considerable inconvenience. It is always a good idea to create a plan for your trip and to let friends and family know when you expect to reach specific destinations.
Consider using a check-in system, especially during long trips. It provides your loved ones a measure of comfort knowing where you are. It also alerts them to call emergency services if you don’t arrive at a planned destination at the expected time.
What if your Car Overheats?
Suppose your car overheats while driving. Turn on the hazard lights immediately and pull over to the side of the road. When you have stopped at a safe place, open your doors and windows and wait in the shade until rescue arrives.
Never open the radiator cap until the engine has cooled. Boiling steam and liquid could shoot out and cause a severe burn. Pour cold water to cool down the overheated components.
About Daniels Insurance, Inc.
At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that businesses like yours face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.