It is hard to believe, but the holiday season is upon us, and that equates to travel for many, whether it is to your grandparents’ home, vacation spot, or to another loved one’s destination. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years are busy times for everyone and are among one of the busiest travel times of the year, most of which is done by personal vehicle. Statistics show that about 91% of holiday travel is done by personal car/vehicle and that means you need to follow tips to arrive alive during the holidays.
Below Are Some Safety Tips to Ensure Smooth Travels During the Holidays:
Maintain the upkeep of your vehicle- Maintenance on your vehicle is of utmost importance if you are travelling on the highways. Routine checks on oil, tires, brakes, battery, and wiper blades/fluid, are just some of the items that need to be inspected on a regular basis.
Keep necessary documentation in the vehicle- This may entail proof of insurance, current inspection card, and roadside assistance phone number, so if an accident occurs you will be prepared.
Route your travel destination and plan accordingly- Mapping your travel route and leaving at a specified time that is not heavily congested will help maintain safety during your holiday travels. The more traffic on the road, the more likely accidents can occur.
Keep a fully charged cell phone along with charger– This will ensure if you are involved in a wreck, you can notify the necessary people or businesses. Make sure you have the listed numbers programmed in your phone to include your N.C. independent insurance agent and AAA.
Discuss safety issues with your children- Prior to leaving on the family trip, have a meeting with your family about not talking to strangers, staying together, making sure all personal, valuable items are hidden from view, and monitoring bathroom breaks.
Prepare for the worst- Before your trip, make sure your car is stocked with waters, snacks, blankets, shovel, and a first aid kit. This way, if you do break down in a remote area, you will be prepared until assistance arrives.
If you review these tips prior to your holiday travels and practice them while traveling, you can enjoy your travels, while avoiding the stress that driving on the highways can present. More fun, less stress! Enjoy the upcoming holiday season!