With summer practically here, many families in Louisianna are gearing up for an epic road trip. When taking an extended drive in your vehicle, it’s important to take the proper safety measures to keep you, your family, and other motorists safe. In this case, State Farm recommends the following summer safety tips.
Build a roadside emergency kit
In the event your best efforts at preventing an accident are unsuccessful, a roadside emergency kit is a must. It should include spare tire and jack, jumper cables, road flares or hazard triangles, and a set of basic tools. It’s also recommended that you include a first aid kit for treating injuries, as well as some water and food in the event you and your family must wait for emergency services to arrive. For nighttime traveling, make sure your kit also includes a flashlight.
When traveling with kids, it’s important to ensure they’re secured in the vehicle. Not only will this protect them, it will also prevent you from being distracted. Babies and small kids should travel in an appropriate car seat until they reach the proper age/weight limit. Older kids should be buckled in at all times, no matter what. Be sure to bring books or other recreational activities to keep your children occupied during long drives, which will prevent restlessness. Also, take breaks along the way so you and your kids can stretch.
Lastly, make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before heading out. Have your mechanic top off fluids, check tire pressure, and make sure your brakes are in good working order. You’ll also want to check headlights, signals, and emergency lights in the event you run into trouble on the highway. A poorly maintained vehicle does increase the risk of a crash, particularly if you break down in the middle of traffic.