Is Your Car Road-Worthy This Summer?
Like many Americans who think of ways to beat the summer heat, road trips are fun, family excursions. It’s a chance to hit the road, see the sights and smell the smells of the open spaces. Going by car, van or truck is part of the exhilaration. If so, then it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your vehicle is ready for traveling these warmer months. Here are five simple summer safety tips you should follow before hitting the road.
Better check first for recalls.
Did you know that millions of cars are recalled every year for factory defects? Is your car’s make, model and batch one of them? This thought may make you feel anxious, so before hitting the road, it’s best to check and see if your vehicle is on the recall list. Sign up for recall alerts and do this ahead of summer. Now if you are fortunate not to be included, inspect your car and ready it for repairs, If need be.
Make repairs on your car.
Inspect your car first. Do a full inspection of your vehicle. Check the tire pressure and condition, the windshield wiper fluid, and oil. Make sure your wiper blades and lights are working. If your car is overdue for an oil change or tune-up, now is the perfect time to get it done so you can avoid any issues on the road.
Be sure you have your emergency roadside kit.
In case of an emergency, you don’t want to get stuck on the side of the road because you forgot your kit or lack certain provisions to deal with a mishap you did not plan for. It will be frustrating just waiting for help to arrive.
Therefore, always keep this emergency kit in your trunk. Your kit should include first-aid, flashlights and extra batteries, flares, reflectors, jumper cables, blankets, and water. Be sure you also have wheel wrench, tripod jack, complete tool set, a quart or more of motor oil, a gallon of coolant, and a compass among others.
Before you go, practice safety first.
Before hitting the gas, make sure everyone in the car is buckled up. All children and infants should be in car seats. Your focus should be driving. Don’t text and drive. Eliminate all possible distractions so that you and your loved ones get to your destination safely.
Share the road.
On the road, you will meet other cars and trucks, as well as motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Be cautious while driving around them. Keep your distance, stop when needed, maintain speed, and adjust your mirrors so that you can see correctly. Most importantly, have patience. Arrive safe.
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