Summer is the perfect time for a road trip. After a year cooped up, you are probably itching to hit the road and do some traveling. So are millions of people in Connecticut and the rest of New England. If you are considering taking a road trip this summer, take a moment to brush up on some safety tips. They could very well save the life of you, your passengers and other drivers.
Simple safety rules
As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. By taking a few precautionary measures, you can go a long way toward a safer, happier road trip. Just keep these pointers in mind:
- Take your car for a tune-up
Improperly maintained vehicles contribute to many accidents. Before you start your trip, bring your car or truck to a shop for a once-over to ensure that it is safe. This is particularly important before driving long distances.
- Avoid distraction
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of car accidents in the U.S. Put your handheld devices down and resist the urge to use them while driving. Have a passenger navigate the directions, adjust the radio and text or call on your behalf.
- Drive defensively
Unfortunately, many other drivers do not make safe choices. Over-eagerness to get back into the world may prompt some motorists to drive recklessly. Keep your eyes peeled for drivers who are speeding, weaving between lanes and disobeying traffic laws.
- Know the steps to take in an accident
Some car crashes are inevitable. Even in a minor fender-bender, you should know the steps to take:
- Contact the police to file a report
- Get medical attention, even if you do not have bruises or scarring
- Get the name, insurance information and contact information of the other driver
- Document the accident scene by taking photos
- Do not speak with insurance representatives until you have a lawyer
- Take your car to a reputable repair shop
With these safety precautions in place, you can have peace of mind as you travel to your destination safely.
