Summer is nearly upon us, and with summer come road trips. When you head out on the open road, your first priority should always be safety. Fortunately, there are several safety tips that can help you and your loved ones stay safe out there this summer. If another driver's negligence leaves you injured, seek the skilled legal counsel of an experienced Central Texas personal injury attorney.
Family Driving Vacations Are on the Rise
Summer has always been the right time for family driving vacations, but according to AAA, the numbers are on the rise. Texas is a great big state with miles and miles of beautiful highways and byways that see their fair share of summer travelers. When it comes to long summer road trips, putting safety first is always a good idea:
Make Sure Your Vehicle Is in Good Working Order
Before you get on the road, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that you check all of your vehicle’s fluid levels and give the air conditioning a test run. Ensure that your car’s battery and belts are in good working order, and if you have not been sticking to regularly scheduled maintenance, now is a good time to schedule a routine check and to seek any recommended services. Finally, test your headlights, brake lights, blinkers, and emergency lights. These lights are elemental to keeping you safe on the road, and they often go ignored until there is a problem, so take the time to check.
Tires, Tires, Tires
Your tires connect your car to the road, and as such, they deserve a section of their own. Do not even consider taking a serious summer road trip before ensuring that your tires are in excellent condition and are properly inflated.
Abide by the Safety Rules of the Road
Never head out on a long drive unless you are well rested. Take frequent breaks in which you get out of your car and stretch. Plan your route so that you bypass major urban areas during peak traffic hours, and do not overdo the driving in any given day. Further, build additional time into your schedule, so you do not find yourself rushing to hit an arrival time that is no longer viable. Always follow the rules of the road, including all posted speed limits, and never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or exhaustion.
Be Prepared
Keep at least one phone in your vehicle fully charged throughout the trip in case of an emergency. Pack a first aid kit, a flashlight, flares, jumper cables, a jack and spare tire, and work gloves just in case. It is also important to keep bottles of fresh water and nonrefrigerated snacks in case a lengthy wait arises.
If You Are Injured in an Accident Caused by Another Driver’s Negligence, You Need an Experienced Central Texas Personal Injury Attorney
If another motorist’s negligence leaves you injured, Attorney Brett H. Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Central Texas is here to help. For more information, please contact or call us at (254) 220-4225 today.