Post-COVID Road Trip Safety
Now that COVID-related restrictions are being lifted in many places, lots of people are ready to hit the road starting … yesterday.
If you’re planning a summer road trip, it’s still important to follow some safety guidelines. Remember to bring your vaccination cards, masks for everyone, and plenty of hand sanitizer. Masks may still be required at hotels, motels, stores, and recreation sites. And they’ll be especially important if you’ll be in crowded places. If you’re staying in hotels or motels along the way, check into their sanitation procedures.
Next, be sure your vehicle is ready! Here are some great tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Stock your vehicle
Even a well-maintained vehicle can break down, so it’s a good idea to put together an emergency roadside kit. With your cell phone, you’ll be able to call for help when and where you need it – but take a couple of minutes to program in the numbers for your insurance company and any road assistance plan you have. Also include:
- Cell phone charger
- First aid kit
- Flashlight, flares and a white flag
- Jumper cables
- Tire pressure gauge
- Jack (and ground mat) for changing a tire
- Basic repair tools and some duct tape (for temporarily repairing a hose leak)
- Water, nonperishable food, and medicines
- Extra windshield washer fluid
- Maps
- Emergency blankets, towels and coats
Get your vehicle serviced
Regular maintenance such as tune-ups, oil changes, battery checks, and tire rotations go a long way toward preventing breakdowns. If your vehicle has been serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, it should be in good condition to travel. If not – or you don’t know the service history of the vehicle you plan to drive – schedule a preventive maintenance checkup right away.
Check the tires
Make sure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, which is listed in your owner’s manual and on a placard located on the driver’s side door frame. The correct pressure is not the number listed on the tire. Be sure to check tires when they are cold, when the car hasn’t been driven for at least three hours.
Plan your travel and route
Before heading out, make sure to check the weather, road conditions, and traffic. Program the weather app on your phone with locations along your route. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination safely. And always familiarize yourself with directions and maps before you go, even if you use a GPS system. Let others know your route and anticipated arrival time.
On the road
Keep your gas tank close to full whenever possible. On longer trips, plan enough time to stop and stretch, get something to eat, return calls or text messages, and change drivers or rest if you feel drowsy.
Have fun!
You’ve done amazing work as a Kline Galland team member! You and your family and friends deserve some summer fun. Be safe and have a blast!
