Summertime is the time of the year when many people do most of their traveling. It’s important to consider safety when you’re on those crowded roadways, and when you travel abroad. Here are 6 ways to make your travels safer this summer.
Make sure your car is in tip-top shape Before you head out on any road trip it’s very important to make sure your car is in good working condition. Do this by checking all the fluid levels, check the air pressure in the tires, make sure the wipers work, and test all lights to be sure they are working properly.
Be prepared for the worse In the event you should break down, or get lost, it’s important to be prepared for the worse. You should take enough supplies with you to last you at least 3 days. Water, non-perishable snacks, sunblock (In case you wind up walking for help) a hat, mosquitoes repellant and a good pair of shoes.
You should also keep a well-stocked first-aid kit and emergency road flares.
Give your insurance policy a checkup Has your policy lapsed? Will you be traveling through a state that requires higher minimum liability coverage than you currently have? Do you have collision coverage?
Many people forget this summer trip safety tip, but you need to make sure you have adequate coverage, and that your policy is current and in full force. Contact your insurance agent who will help you with this.
Map out your route Knowing where you’re going is one thing. Having a route mapped out is completely another. Don’t take the chance of getting lost on some desolate highway or winding up in a shady part of town.
Sit down and map out the route you’ll be taking to get to your destination. You should also activate the emergency GPS feature on your cell phone. In the event you do become lost far away from anything, authorities may be able to use the GPS to find you.
Tell someone where you’re going All too often, people will head out on a trip without telling anyone where they’re going. Spontaneity is a cool trait, but it’s always a good idea to inform someone about your travel plans.
Let them know when you’re leaving, where you’re going, when you anticipate arriving and when you think you’ll be back. Check in with them along the way so they know you’re on track.
Is your destination safe? If you’re travelling overseas, make sure the region of the world you’re going to is safe. Sometimes certain countries and regions around the world are labeled as unsafe to travel to or through.
If you’re traveling to a region that is considered to be dangerous, do yourself a favor and cancel your trip. You may wind up losing some money, but it’s better than losing your life.
About the author of this article: Maryellen W. works to keep consumers safe by educating them on auto insurance and safety-related topics.
I am drawing my route on a map before going for a trip, because it helps to find the right way.
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