Whether you plan to travel cross-country or see more of California, summer is a great time to take a road trip with the family and/or a group of friends. However, summer road trips also present unique seasonal safety challenges.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers a number of safety tips to help you have fun on your trip and avoid hazards.
1. Ensure the safety of children and pets
This means checking to make sure that neither small children nor four-legged friends are behind the vehicle before backing out of a parking space and not leaving children and/or pets unattended in a hot car or truck. It also means restraining children and pets properly when they are vehicle passengers.
2. Share the road
Warmer weather entices pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycle riders out of doors and onto the road. Take care to be mindful and check for these individuals alongside your vehicle, as they can be less visible on the streets and highways than other cars.
3. Check your vehicle before setting out
You should ensure that your car is safe and working properly before setting out on a road trip. Go over your safety checklist and have any potential problems evaluated by a mechanic.
4. Avoid risky behaviors
Risky driving behaviors include operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. They also include allowing yourself to become distracted with other activities (eating, texting, etc.) while driving. Avoiding these behaviors is always a good idea, not just during summer.
The information in this article is not intended as legal advice but provided for educational purposes only.
