Safe travel tips for summer roads
So how do you keep yourself safe when driving during the summer? We have a few tips.
Before going on a road trip, take your car for a safety check
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests regular maintenance throughout the summer. You’re less likely to crash or get stranded when your vehicle is in top condition.
The NHTSA’s maintenance checklist includes the following:
- Tires
- Lights
- Cooling system
- Fluid levels
- Belts
- Hoses
- Wiper blades
- Air conditioning
- Floor mats
Research and plan your route ahead of time
To stay on the safest roads, you’ll need to plan ahead. One great place to get information for driving is the Federal Highway Administration’s Real-Time Traveler Information. The site has data about the accuracy of travel time displays, travel time reliability information, and travel hotlines for locations across the country.
You can also look at the Federal Highway Administration’s National Traffic and Road Closure Information. These pages share traffic stats and closed road alerts.
Once you’ve planned your route, share it with a friend or family member who’s staying home. Schedule periodic check-ins with them—especially if you’re traveling solo.
Avoid driving on risky days or at risky times
The resources from the Fatalities section will help you determine the riskiest days and times to drive in your area. We suggest planning longer car trips along those days. On the overall riskiest day in your state, make alternate, non-driving plans if you can. For instance, if you live in New Mexico and the riskiest driving day is the Fourth of July, maybe you should stay in. You can start a tradition where you barbecue in your backyard and watch a parade broadcast at home. Of course, if you don’t want to change your plans for the day, you can also take public transportation. Depending on where you live, the subway or bus system might be a viable alternative to driving.