5 Tips for Safer Summer Driving

If you’re planning a road trip this summer, here are a few tips to help get you to your destination safely.

Prep Your Car

Have a mechanic check your vehicle’s radiator, pressure cap, belts and hoses, as well as fluid levels (brake, transmission, power steering, windshield washer, and coolant). Also, have him/her inspect your brakes, tires (including spare), air conditioning, wiper blades, battery, and cables. Be sure to test the headlights, brake lights, and turn signals as well.

Watch for Two-Wheeled, Two-Footed Risks

Warmer weather means more people on foot, bikes, and motorcycles. Slow down and be prepared to stop for any cyclists, especially when making right hand turns, and pedestrians in crosswalks. Also, allow more distance for braking between your vehicle and the motorcycle ahead of you.

Avoid Fatigued, Distracted Driving

Schedule regular rest stops to stretch your legs, freshen up, and get your eyes off the road. Pull over to a safe location and rest until you’re comfortable to drive, or have someone else drive if you become tired or drowsy. Avoid texting, talking on the phone, eating, or drinking while driving.

Be Aware of Road Construction

Warmer weather brings increased road repairs and construction. Review your travel plans beforehand to determine if you will encounter roadwork on the way to your destination, and if there are alternative routes available. Remember construction sites are work areas. Be sure to follow posted speed limits and be aware of narrower driving lanes, workers or work vehicles, as well as any debris in the road that could damage your tires.

Have an Emergency Safety Kit

Always travel prepared in the event you become stranded. Be sure to have battery booster cables, flashlight and extra batteries, duct tape, work gloves, screwdrivers and wrenches, along with a first aid kit. Keep a car adapter charger for your cell phone, non-perishable snacks, and water packed in a cooler.

NJM Insurance Group’s Commitment to Safety

NJM’s enduring commitment to safety can be traced back to our earliest days — with a focus that has expanded from improving conditions in manufacturing facilities to helping keep customers safe on the roads and at home. NJM is a leader in personal and commercial auto, homeowners, and workers’ compensation insurance.

References:

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). nhtsa.gov.
National Safety Council (NSC). https://www.nsc.org.
DMV.org. https://www.dmv.org.