One of the many great things about summertime is your chance to bond and interact with your friends and family. Even if your trip this year may be different from past outings, that doesn’t mean you don’t need the same level of safety. Whether you are traveling down I-80 or your local highway in a car, pickup, SUV, or RV to somewhere near or far, the security of your friends and family is critical. Prevention and planning will help make the trip one to remember. We put together a list of driving safety tips to ensure you enjoy every aspect of your trip.

Check Your Car

The first thing you should do to prepare for your trip is to make sure your car is ready to go. Regular maintenance such as tune-ups, oil changes, battery checks, tire rotations, and checking for recalls go a long way to guarantee you do not run into any problems while you are on your trip. No matter how well you have taken care of your car, there are some things you need to check yourself before you leave. It is good to always check your tires for pressure and tread.  You should also check to ensure your windshield wipers and air conditioner are in proper working condition.

Plan Ahead

We know how exciting it can be to get in your car, drive in a direction, and end up somewhere. However, it is critical to plan and be prepared for anything that might go wrong. Creating an itinerary for your trip can help make the drive more enjoyable and will also ensure you aren’t missing out on any attractions you want to see along the way or when you reach your destination.

Gear Up for Safety

According to the Nation Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), packing an emergency kit for all of your trips is recommended. This includes many things like a cell phone and a first aid kit topping the list. Suggested roadside kit contents include: a flashlight, flares and a white flag, jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, a jack for tire changes, maps, emergency clothes, and more. To learn more, you can visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/summer-driving-tips.

On the Road

It is always important to stay alert whenever you are driving to guarantee you and your family or friends are safe. Long distances can be tough on anyone. Take time to stop and smell the roses and to take a mental break from driving. You can schedule these around attractions you want to see before you reach your final destination. If you are staying close to home or traveling far, it is vital to avoid risky , distracted or impaired driving, as well as  speeding. We know you want to get to your destination as soon as possible, but it is always best to take your time and enjoy the time you get with family and friends while on the road.

We know how much family, friends, and community mean to everyone, and these driving safety tips will help everyone keep safe. Our collision repair, glass replacement, paintless dent repair, and towing are here to make your life easier. Remember, our priority at Eustis Body Shop is our commitment to our customers’ health and safety. Now, come up with an idea, create a plan, and have a great trip!