7 Tips for a safe and fun Road Trip

Spring break is on the way and summer will follow soon after. If you're planning to take a road trip, long or short, make sure you and your vehicle are safe and ready to go by following these recommendations:

Service your vehicle:

This may seem obvious, but getting basic maintenance on your vehicle is critical to minimize the risk of running into trouble on the road. Brakes, tires and fluids are the most important elements to attend to on your vehicle. Be sure your brakes are in good shape, tires are properly inflated, and all fluids are at the right levels.

Check your vision:

Being able to see the road is key to safe driving. Replace poorly functioning windshield wipers with quality blades, and carry extra wiper fluid, especially if you are traveling in the spring. Always take the time to completely clear your car of snow, ice or other obstructions before getting on the road. Make sure your lights are in good working condition. Finally, always wear corrective eyewear and keep sunglasses handy for overly bright road conditions.

Prepare for an emergency:

Nobody wants to be stranded on the highway, but getting stranded without emergency supplies is even worse. Be sure to carry water, non-perishable snacks, and blankets, just in case. It's also smart to carry a first aid kid and a basic toolkit, plus a shovel and fuel can.

Get help ahead of time:

Some auto policies cover towing and roadside assistance. Be sure to check your policy or contact Linville Insurance Agency to make sure your auto policy includes towing and roadside assistance.

Map your route:

The days of paper maps and AAA Triptiks are mostly gone, but just because you have Google Maps doesn't mean you don't need to plan your route. Take some time to look at the big picture, check out the terrain, find stops along the way, and anticipate the weather.

Make connections:

There's nothing worse than arriving at your destination for the night, only to find that a cat show or realtor convention has booked every last hotel room in the area. Plan ahead by making hotel reservations. In the event of emergency, it's also a great idea to have phone numbers of people in the area that you can call if necessary.

Consider younger travelers:

It's important to think through the needs of fellow travelers who may not be able to speak for themselves. Packing fun activities and plenty of snacks will make traveling with kids more pleasant. Plan on stopping more often for bathroom or stretch breaks. Be flexible, take things slowly, and be willing to change your plans if necessary.

For any auto insurance questions, call or contact Linville Insurance Agency today.