6 Things You Need to Do – BEFORE You Leave on a Summer Road Trip!

Road trips can be full of fun and adventure!  To ensure your vehicle is in great shape and ready for action, follow these tips! 1.      Schedule a Checkup.  Schedule a checkup for your car with a certified mechanic.  Ask the mechanic for a pre-trip checkup which should include assessing the following key components:

  • Engine oil and oil filter
  • Suspension alignment
  • Brakes
  • Belts and hoses
  • Cooling system including the coolant
  • Tire tread depth and tire pressure
  • Air filter
  • Air conditioning
  • Lights
  • Battery
  • Windshield wiper blades and fluid

 2.      Consider a Rental. 

If the maintenance required is over your budget or you need a different size vehicle, consider renting a vehicle from a reputable rental company.  Before doing so, check with your insurance company to make sure your policy will provide you coverage, as policies differ.

3.      Buckle Up. 

Ensure that all seatbelts work properly and buckle up!  Confirm that all child safety seats are tightened correctly using the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) and 3-point harness where appropriate.

4.      Be prepared. 

Bring an emergency kit with a flashlight, jumper cables, tire sealant, first aid kit, blankets, flares, bottled water, and easy-to-open, non-perishable food.

5.      Pack smart. 

Bring the items you need, but don’t overdo it!  Keep the total weight allowed for your vehicle below the maximum recommended weight – you can find this information in the placard on the driver-side door jam.  Pack heaviest items first; make sure potentially dangerous objects such as umbrellas are secured.  Be sure that you don’t block visibility.  Suitcases and other heavy items on the roof can affect vehicle handling as well as fuel economy.

6.      Drive safely. 

  • Follow driving safety rules and be sure to give plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you.
  • If a vehicle in front of you is driving unpredictably, stay calm and stay away.  If someone in the car can safely make a call, contact 911 to report the behavior.
  • Additionally, keep an eye out for semi-trucks and large vehicles, and give them extra room as they require more time and distance to stop. 

For additional tips and information, click here  to view the guide from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and click below to connect to their website.  On behalf of Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., have a safe road trip!

NHTSA_Summer_Trips_2014

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Goldman & Daszkal, P.A.

Since 1990, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. has provided reputable legal representation to people throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties.  The firm has helped thousands of individuals recover compensation from motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall accidents, product defect and liability cases, pharmacy errors, and negligent security cases to cover medical expenses, pay bills, take care of their families, and return to work.  Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help you get the relief you need to start living your life again after a serious injury.  For a free and confidential consultation, contact Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., at 888-504-HURT (4878).