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Safe Trip Tips before you take to the highways for your next vacation, take some steps to ensure your trip is a safe one.
1. Inspect your vehicle
Unless you're very knowledgeable when it comes to auto repair and maintenance, it is best to have a mechanic inspect your vehicle before a long trip. However, there are a few inspections almost anyone can make:
- Check hoses (to and from the radiator and the heater). If they are cracked, look dry-rotted, worn, or are bulging, replace them.
- Check your battery. Clean off any buildup of electrolyte with a mixture of baking soda and water.
- Check your tires for wear or damage.
- Check fluid levels (oil, transmission, coolant, window washer, etc.)
- Look under the car to see if there are any fluids leaking.
- Make sure your spare tire is well inflated and the jack is in place.
Obviously, if your car is not running properly in any way, have it repaired before your trip.
2. Pack your car safely
The open cargo areas of station wagons and sport utility vehicles can be dangerous. Luggage stacked above the back seat will not only impede your vision, but can also become dangerous projectiles inside of your vehicle if you come to a sudden stop. Also, avoid placing objects on the dashboard or rear deck of any vehicle.
3. Bring an auto emergency kit
If you have a roadside emergency, the following items may be useful for you:
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Tool box with screwdrivers, wrenches, and a small hammer
Car owner's manual
Warm blanket
Flares
Fuses
Snack food
Sealant for small leaks in tires |
Fire extinguisher
Empty gas can
Can of motor oil
Portable radio with spare batteries
Emergency phone numbers of family and friends
Spare change
First-aid kit |
Flash light with spare batteries
Bottled water
Jumper cables
Tire pressure gauge
Pre-moistened towlettes
Window scraper for ice
Cellular phone
Duct tape |
4. Watch those gauges
Stay aware of your fuel level and how far it may be to the next service station. It's a good idea to never run your car below a quarter of a tank, especially in cold weather.
Also watch the engine temperature, oil pressure, and other gauges/warning lights that can signal a problem with your vehicle.
5. Expect the unexpected
Use extra caution on unfamiliar roads, paying close attention to all road signs that warn you of curves, one-lane bridges, railroad crossings, etc. Plan alternate routes in the event a road becomes closed or jammed due to accidents, weather or construction. Give yourself ample time between destinations to avoid rushing and driving at night.
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