Summer is the best time of year to go on a road trip. While there are many people on the road with the same idea, the weather tends to be mild, meaning the roads are less likely to be slick with rain, sleet, or ice. Before you and your family start your journey, however, you might want to take the following precautions before leaving the driveway.

MAINTENANCE YOUR CAR

If you get your car regularly tuned up by your dealership, then you might not need to do this. However, if it has been a few months, you should take your car to a mechanic. Basic maintenance is necessary before you head out on the road. Your mechanic should check your tire pressure, tire tread, windshield wipers, car fluids, engine, battery, brakes, and transmission. If you get this checked, you are less likely to be surprised by a sudden breakdown on your way to the next city or town.

PACK LIGHTLY

Every car has a load capacity, which you should not exceed. If your vehicle is too heavy, you increase your chance of blowing out a tire when you’re on the road. Likewise, the heavier a car is, the more gas it will need to keep going. Most new cars come with the weight capacity on the door placard in the driver’s door jam. Try to pack as lightly as possible.

BRING NAVIGATION TOOLS

In addition to taking a portable GPS navigation system, you might want to pack a few physical maps as well. The GPS will help tell you where to go, but if the signal cuts out, you should have an old-fashioned map to help you navigate until the signal comes back. A GPS navigation device has the advantage of warning of potential roadway congestion, and all units can assist you in finding an alternative route if your original route is problematic.

PACK FOR KIDS

Traveling with children for extended periods of time can be tedious for the unprepared. If you have kids, make sure to pack enough games, snacks, books, water, videos, video games, and music to keep them comfortable and occupied throughout the journey. If they tend to get carsick, consider taking some car sickness medication along.

PACK AN EMERGENCY KIT

Depending on how long your drive is, you might also want to take an emergency preparation kit. This should include a first aid kit, a solar-powered phone charger, a spare tire, a car jack, a small empty gas can, road flares, extra bottles of water, sunscreen, a rain poncho, umbrellas, nonperishable snacks, and flashlights. If you have extra space, blankets and pillows should also be included. Make sure your first aid kit is well-stocked with antiseptic, bandages, cotton balls, cotton swabs, burn cream, aspirin, ibuprofen, medical tape, scissors, and any other items you think your family might need (such as prescription medication or allergy medication).

Stay safe on the road this summer! However, if you encounter any problems with a negligent driver, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Levinson Law Firm has been helping people recover compensation for injuries resulting in medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. If a negligent or careless driver contributed to your injury, let us help you seek justice. Our skilled Carlsbad car accident attorneys have helped people recover nearly $50 million in verdicts and settlements. We are proud to have built a reputation for excellence in advocacy and dedication to the Southern California community. Levinson Law Firm has more than 40 years of legal experience to offer your case. We look forward to seeing what we can do for you.

Contact us at (760) 642-5475 or fill out our online form to schedule your free case consultation today.