With the warm weather and the kids being off of school, the summer vacation is the perfect time to strap everyone in the car and take them on a road trip. However, you should not only be thinking about the fun that you will have when you get to your destination but also about how to arrive there as safe as possible. Happy, this something that the post below can advise you on.
Seatbelts and boosters
First of all, on a family trip it’s likely you will have the kids in the back, and for them to ride safely, you must ensure that they keep their seatbelts on. Yes, this can be difficult if they want to sleep or change position, but there are belt protectors that you can purchase to make things a little more comfortable. Just don’t allow them to take them off and it can literally be the difference between surviving or not if an accident does happen!
Similarly, younger children will need to have booster seats installed to ride safely. Such seats not only allow them to see more of what is going on but can protect their heads and bodies and also make sure they are in the right position for their seatbelt to be effective.
However, as many booster seats are not installed correctly, it is always worth checking them before a long journey. Just to be on the safe side.
Maintenance
Next, for a summer road trip, it is essential that you service and maintain your vehicle before you start out, as this can not only ensure that you make good time but also help you to avoid accidents and keep you and your family safe as well.
Your vehicle maintenance should include things such as checking tire pressure and tread wear, as well as oil and water levels. Also, make a point of ensuring that you windscreen wash is topped up and that you have a spare tire in case of a blowout.
Emergency supplies
In addition to maintaining and servicing your car before a long trip, it’s also a good idea to ensure that you have all of the supplies that you will need for the duration of the journey to hand. After all, you don’t want to be taking your hands from the wheel and searching about for items that you need while on the busy highway.
To that end, the day before you set off, write a list of everything you could need during your journey. Such a list may include a charger or cable so you can plug your phone into your infotainment system, as well as a power pack in case the kids’ phones go dead.
Also, be sure to take plenty of snacks and refreshments for the journey, as these can not only help you to stay focused, but also stop the kids from bugging and distracting you while you are driving as well.
In addition to these essentials you will also need basics emergency items such as jump leads, a blanket, and a flashlight, just in case something does happen. It’s also wise to always carry a basic first aid kit and a hazard sign as well, so you know that you will be covered in all eventualities.
Driving in shifts
Tiredness is something that drivers need to be very wary of in themselves, and in others on the road during longer trips. One way to get around this is to take driving shifts where the adults swap over, allowing one to sleep while you continue your progress.
Of course, this is not always an option, and then regular breaks are essential to maintain the proper focus for driving. Otherwise, you would risk being part of an accident because you were not awake enough to avoid it.
Although, if you do find yourself in the unfortunate position of being involved in a vehicle accident on your road trip, be sure to contact your car accident attorney as soon as you return. Then, they can gather all the details on the incident and decide whether it is worth you making a claim. Something that can mean the costs of your repairs and even medical bills will be covered if you are found to be not at fault.
Directions
Lastly, when it comes to road trips, those big old maps that obscure the windscreen and you need a degree in geography to read are a terrible idea.
Drop the big maps.
Instead, embrace modern tech and go with a satnav that will guide you step by step, safely to your destination. Just remember to update it before any big, out of state journeys, so you know you are following the most accurate instructions.
