We are back in the madness and wonder of the holidays. There is a mix of excitement and stress in the air, with parties and presents everywhere! With the season in full swing, and shoppers and party-goers running here to there, we need to be diligent in our travels.
AAA is estimating an astonishing 103 million people will be traveling to celebrate the holiday season and close out 2016. Of those, more than 90% are expected to travel by road rather than air. With that many people on the road (and likely in a hurry, or stressed….or both), there is plenty of room for human error, but there are steps you can take to protect your family:
Before you hit the road, make sure you analyze your vehicle – especially if you are taking a long road trip.
- Check your tires – not just the air pressure, actually inspect the walls and tread of the tire. Sometimes it’s what you can’t see that could be the most deadly.
- Check your fluids. Make sure that everything is full of the appropriate fluid necessary for that specific function. Make sure the oil and the transmission fluid are full.
- Inspect your belts for frays and make sure they are taut.
- Inspect your air filter for cleanliness
- Make sure you have a flashlight in your vehicle (and check the batteries before you leave). It would also be a good idea to have a variety pack of fuses for your vehicle in your glove box. Sometimes that could be the easy fix that could have you back on the road quickly without needing to wait for roadside assistance.
- Make sure you have some extras:
- Keep extra supplies in your trunk – fluids like antifreeze, oil, and water can be helpful.
- If you are travelling far, it would be a good idea to carry drinking water and a few snacks just in case. If you get stuck on the side of the road, there is no telling how long you may be stuck.
- If you are travelling with children, it is a good idea to pack some entertainment for the trip. You will want to consider items that do not require electricity/power because if your car breaks down, you may not have that option. The good thing about having these items in the car – they could help the whole family pass the time.
- Depending on where your travels take you, you may want to make sure you are prepared for snow and ice. In this case, you’ll want to make sure you have chains, and blankets would be a safe bet, too.
No matter what your plans this holiday season, be aware of your surroundings. Plan your trip before you leave, with alternate routes just in case. We wish you a safe and joyous holiday season. We will be home, just the immediate family celebrating this year. If you need help, we are just a phone call away.
Atomic Towing 