Road Trip Street Smarts
Safety Tips for Hitting the Road

Considered an American tradition by many travelers, road trips are a time for friends and family to bond and share an experience in close quarters. Though it is an adventure, there are some things that are simply nice not to experience – like breaking down on the side of the road in the middle of the night or any other number of possible scenarios. Follow some precautions to prevent negative situations and to prepare for the unexpected.

Get Enough Sleep
Plenty of sleep the night before you get on the road refreshes your body and helps keep you alert. It also supplies you with more patience to calmly handle children bickering in the backseat, drivers cutting you off and other aggravations.

Maintenance the Car
Take the time to perform basic car maintenance before you head out. Check the oil, the fuel level, the battery and the tire pressure. If you haven’t had one in a while, a tune-up is a good idea, too.

Plan Ahead
Make sure you have planned out the course of your trip and that your maps are accessible to you and your copilot. Keep your cell phone charged and within reach in case of emergency. Share your travel plans with a friend or family member at home in case you need to be reached while you are away.

Obey the Law
Follow the posted speed limits and other road signs for safety measures. You and your passengers should always buckle your seat belt while the car is in motion, regardless of state laws that mention otherwise. Small children need to be in the proper safety seats, as well.

Pay Attention
Exercise caution and awareness when stopping at rest stops and driving in traffic. Be wary of people who try to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. Additionally, poor road conditions and weather can affect your trip. Drive carefully to avoid any problems.

Pack Smart
A roadside emergency kit in the trunk should include water, a blanket, tools, a flashlight, flares or reflectors, gloves and a first aid kit. Also, load your car smartly by keeping the things you need along the way handy. Make your windows and mirrors visible and pack the car evenly to balance the weight.

Did you know that you have access to Emergency Roadside Assistance simply for being a member of the Alliance for Affordable Services? Just a phone call away, roadside service can help you with flat tires, dead batteries, keys locked in the car, and other roadside troubles. Emergency Roadside Assistance even offers trip planning services that provide free maps, mileage guides and destination information. For more information, please visit the benefits section of the Alliance Web site, www.AffordableServices.org.

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