When is the last time you tuned up your vehicle? While we often think of driving during winter snow or spring thunderstorms as particularly dangerous, the summer months present their own challenges. Performing regular vehicle maintenance can help you stay ready to hit the road at a moment’s notice.
Vehicle Safety Inspection
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that you conduct a vehicle safety inspection before any road trips or long distance travel. Here is a list of the areas to pay attention to as you look over your car:
- Tires: air pressure, tread ware, and condition of spare tire
- Lights: headlights, turn signals, brake lights, interior lights, trailer lights, and emergency flashers
- Wiper blades: look for wear and tear
- Coolant level
- Belts and hoses: look at the condition and fittings to check for damage
- Fluid levels: oil, brake, power steering, transmission, and power steering
- Check air conditioning performance
- Make sure floor mats are the proper size and installed correctly
If you notice any repairs that need to be made, schedule a vehicle maintenance appointment right away.
Be Prepared
Your vehicle could break down, or the road might be closed due to a bad accident. It’s a good idea to have an emergency roadside kit in your automobile. Include a cell phone and charger, first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, tire pressure gauge, basic repair tools, flares, jack (for changing a tire), and emergency blankets.
Buckle up every time you get into your vehicle, and don’t start driving until all of your passengers have done the same. If you are traveling with a small child, make sure that his or her car seat or booster seat meets the recommended safety requirements. If you’re taking a family road trip, schedule stops along the way to make the trip easier for everyone.
Share the Road
Cyclists, pedestrians, and motorcyclists are likely to be traveling the same roads as you, so make sure you share! Leave 3-4 seconds worth of distance between your vehicle and a motorcycle. Always signal before changing lanes or merging with traffic to allow others to anticipate your vehicle’s movement. Stay focused behind the wheel and enjoy your summer travels!
If you or a loved one has experienced an injury due to an automobile accident, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
