There are few things more enjoyable than packing up the car and setting off on a road trip adventure. Not only does a road trip allow you to see all the sights the country has to offer, it can also be a great way to save money during travel instead of an expensive flight. While road trips make for a great vacation, it’s important to channel your inner Boy or Girl Scout and “be prepared.”
From accidents to even something as simple as a flat tire, not having a contingency plan can eat into your vacation time and oftentimes lead to added expense. The following are tips on how to be prepared for mishaps while traveling this holiday season.
Stranded on the Road
Even the most careful road trip warrior can run into problems such as running out of gas, a flat tire or even a mechanical malfunction on your car. Before you leave, particularly if you are going on a long road trip, it’s important that you get your vehicle checked by a professional. Ensure your oil changes are up to date and your fluids are topped up, and have them advise you if there are any outstanding issues that need to be addressed.
Getting appropriate roadside assistance plans is also an important step for those who love hitting the road. There are websites where you can compare various roadside assistance companies to find the amount of coverage or price you need. Additionally, check with your automobile insurance company as they often offer their customers great packages for vehicle recovery.
Fender Benders & More
Being on the road in an unfamiliar city can result in getting lost, wrong turns and the occasional map consultation. This can mean you’re not paying as much attention to other drivers and pedestrians as you normally might. If you are involved in an accident, be sure to get as much information as possible from both the other driver and pedestrian including insurance information, as well as any details regarding the time and road conditions. Be sure to involve the police and get a copy of the police report.
Should you find yourself in an accident in another state, you may wish to consult an accident attorney for that particular location to ensure you understand the particular laws and regulations for that state. For example, if you are a New York driver, an accident in San Antonio will bring different laws and violations into play. By consulting a local lawyer, you’ll make sure you’re protected from what you don’t know. In the aforementioned example, consulting with a San Antonio auto accident lawyer would be ideal.
Regular Car Kit Essentials
Depending on your destination, you may need to think about keeping warm and safe while waiting for a rescue or recovery vehicle to attend to you. By always keeping a kit of regular essentials with you, you’ll always be prepared for any event that may happen. In addition to your breakdown assistance information, keeping a warning triangle, first aid kit, road atlas and a mobile phone charger are essential to keeping you and your passengers in the safety zone. Other items to keep with you are a gas canister, bottled water, snacks and a supply of any personal medication you may require.
Driving in a Cold Climate
According to the AA, you’re more likely to experience a vehicle breakdown during a bad winter. If you’re making your trek in the snowier, northern states, you’ll need to ensure you’re carrying items such as extra hats, coats, gloves and blankets to keep warm in the event that you’re stranded. Along with your regular essentials, a shovel, rock salt, jumper cables, flashlights, bottled water and food will also go a long way to help keep you and your passengers comfortable.
If you want to keep your road trip fun and fuss free, being prepared for the bad times will ensure you’re always ready for any event that comes your way. Most preparations can be made before you even hit the open road, meaning you can spend your time buying souvenirs and visiting attractions rather than worrying about what might happen.
About the Author:
With a family of 6, Lisa Coleman understands how being prepared for an impending road trip can make a difference, including having an accident plan in place. Retaining a local lawyer is essential when traveling in another state and an accident occurs. She recently read online how a San Antonio auto accident lawyer could represent such a case.
Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/zachd1_618/9416346080/