Summer is the prime-time to hit the road with your family and check out that campground, amusement park, or beach you’ve always wanted to visit. July and August are some of the busiest months for travel which means there is more traffic, more distractions, and more accidents.

Don’t let the dangers of these traveling months keep you from making new family memories. Here are the best tips to stay safe this summer during your summer road trips.

Prep Your Car

Before heading out you want to make sure your car is in tip-top shape. Your battery will last about three to five years so if your battery is about that old, it may be a good idea to have it tested or replaced.

You want to make sure your tires are ready for a long journey by making sure they are inflated to the correct pressure and have a good tire tread. The summer heat can be hard on your engine, so make sure the cooling system is working correctly.

All fluids should be topped off and all lights should be working. Bring a spare key and replacement batteries so there’s no chance you’ll get locked out of your car. As you pack for your various summer activities, be sure you aren’t overloading your car. Your car has a weight restriction and you shouldn’t go beyond it.

Prep Yourself

When you head out on your summer road trip you want to make sure you are comfortable so that you can stay focused on what really matters — the road. A pair of sunglasses aren’t just for looking cool; sun glare can be very hazardous so a pair of sunglasses can keep you safe during your summer road trip. Eat regular meals and stay hydrated. Bring a phone charger to make sure you can get help in an emergency.

Emergency Preparedness

One way to stay safe is to prepare for stops and breakdowns. It’s a good idea to keep a few choice items on hand like your standard tools, a jump starter or jumper cables, and some road flares or reflective triangle for your car. It’s also a good idea to load up on some extra water before you head out so that you can stay well-hydrated no matter what situation you find yourself in. Extra food is also a great idea as well as a blanket, first aid kit, and a flashlight with extra batteries.

If, despite your best efforts, you find yourself in an accident, it’s important to follow an auto accident checklist. If you’re unsure of what happens after a car accident, you can find printable auto accident checklists online.

But even after filling out a police report and taking down the other driver’s information, you may still be unsure or unable to know how to deal with a car accident. If that’s the case, it’s important to find a find a personal injury lawyer that you can trust.

Cockayne Law proudly fights for Utah injury victims. Give Cockayne Law a call for any of your injury case needs.