Summer vacations are in full swing and more Americans are taking extended trips this July 4th holiday travel period. Since the start of the week and through Sunday, an estimated 70.9 millions people will travel 50 miles or more from home, AAA projects. Nearly 61 Million are forecasted to get there by car.
Before you head out for a family road trip, look at this checklist to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Road Trip Checklist
- Double check car seat installation. Even if your car seat is already installed in the car, it’s worth checking everything is safe and secure. According to AAA, an easy at-home way to do this is to “grab the seat at the car seat belt path and pull side to side and front to back. If it moves more than one inch in any direction, uninstall and start over until a secure fit is achieved.”
- Clean up items inside your car. Loose items can become projectiles in a crash. Clean up/organize your car before the start of your trip.
- Be prepared for the unexpected. A “Go Bag” or emergency kit with first-aid supplies, water, snacks, blankets, jumper cables, and flares is always a good idea on a long road trip. Make sure your phone is fully charged – and keep a charger in the car.
- Plan Ahead. Identify rest stops ahead of time and take breaks to reduce fatigue. The National Safety Council reports that each year, drowsy driving accounts for about 100,000 crashes, 71,000 injuries, and 1,550 fatalities. Check out Florida’s network of rest areas, service plazas, truck comfort stations and welcome centers.
The personal injury lawyers of Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith wish you and family safe travels this July 4th holiday travel period. We have vast experience in handling all types of motor vehicle accidents and are here to help you and your loved ones.