Summer Road Trip Safety Tips
It’s officially summer — do you have any big summer vacations planned? Living in New England, we’re lucky to have so many great summer destinations all within driving distance. When it comes to road trips, however, a little planning and preparation can go a long way. From making sure your car is ready for the long drive to finding ways to keep everyone occupied, there’s a lot to think about before you hit the road. Here at Doherty Insurance, we want to help! Read on for tips and insights to help ensure your summer travel is full of great family bonding time, instead of hours of “Are we there yet?”.
Safety First
Safety should always be a priority — especially when you’ll be on the road for several hours. Here are some tips to consider before you leave:
- After a long winter, your car likely needs some maintenance. Consider things like your tire pressure, fluid levels, battery, and air conditioning system.
- Always fill your gas tank when it is half full to avoid getting stranded.
- Make it a family rule that everyone in the car always has to wear their seat belt.
- Minimize distractions while you’re driving — never use your phone when behind the wheel and avoid doing things like setting GPS systems or reaching for things in the car while you’re driving.
- Make sure all luggage is securely stored before you go.
Traveling with Kids
Road trips are a great way to bond with your kids while making memories that will last a lifetime. Long trips, however, can be tedious for little ones. Keep them occupied with these tips:
- Play car games that will keep your child engaged and observant of their surroundings like the license plate game, iSpy, story time, twenty questions, etc.
- Bring pen and paper games like MadLibs, crosswords or coloring books which they can all do while safely buckled in the back seat.
- Have music ready that everyone will enjoy — singing along is a great way to pass the time!
- On travel days, keep a cooler packed with picnic provisions, healthy snacks, and low-sugar beverages to avoid having to stop frequently for food and drinks.
- On longer drives, plan out stops for your children — stopping somewhere where you child has space to run around can help them get out some energy before getting back in the car.
Traveling with Dogs
While we love bringing our furry friends everywhere with us, it does require a little more planning on a road trip. While some dogs may love riding in the car, it may be anxiety-inducing for others. Here are some insights to consider before you go:
- If this is the first road trip you’ll be taking with your pet, prepare them by going on short trips in the car before the road trip.
- Avoid having your dog roam around the car. Your pet should be secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier that gives them ample space to stand and move around. The carrier or crate should also be secure so they are not sliding around.
- If you do not have a crate or carrier that will fit in your car, keep your pet in the backseat and attach their harness to a seat belt so they are still secure.
- Make sure to have all the supplies your pet may need — like a water bowl, food bowl, food, treats, toys, plastic baggies, and any medication they may need.
- Remember to plan out stops so your pet can relieve themselves.
- Never leave your pet in a parked car — especially during the summer months, this can be deadly.
Road trips are only as fun as you make them, so plan ahead to keep yourself and your passengers entertained and safe. And don’t forget — having the right car insurance policy in place can ease your mind before you leave. If you have questions about car insurance, a Doherty Insurance agent is here to help. Visit our website to connect with one today: www.dohertyinsurance.com/contact-us