Stay safe while hitting the road this summer

With the summer travel season upon us, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds drivers to plan ahead and stay safe on our nation’s roadways.

Before hitting the road, NHTSA recommends that all drivers know their vehicle service history. If that information is not readily available, schedule a preventative maintenance check-up with a mechanic.  Specifically, tire pressure and tread wear should be determined, including that of any spare tires.  Additionally, a check of the vehicle’s belts and hoses, cooling system, fluid levels, air conditioning, lights and wiper blades is recommended.

Having a cell phone, plus an emergency roadside kit with the basics including jumper cables, first aid kit and flashlight is also suggested for a long road trip.

If you are traveling with small children, make sure car seats and booster seats are properly installed and that passengers under the age of 13 years old are seated in the back seat. Also, as the temperature spikes, children should never be left alone in a hot car for quick errands, even with the engine running. If the temperature outside is 80 degrees, the inside of a hot vehicle can become deadly in just minutes.

For long drives, plan ahead to stay focused and avoid fatigue. Schedule frequent breaks to stretch your legs, stop for food and drinks. If necessary, stay overnight in a motel to avoid driving while drowsy.

NHTSA reminds drivers to always buckle up, don’t drink and drive and avoid becoming distracted while behind the wheel. Nearly 80 percent of crashes and 65 percent of near-crashes involve some form of driver distraction according to NHTSA statistics. The most common forms of distraction stem from the use of cell phones and other in-vehicle technologies and other electronic devices.

For more tips for staying safe during your summer road trip, click here.

Published 8-1-14