Tips for traveling this summer
Memorial Day weekend typically marks the start of the summer vacation season. And, as that wonderful Arizona summer approaches, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, NHSTA, urges drivers to take proper precautions before and while driving on the roadways.
And in those summer months, there is a significant increase in drivers on the road. Many go on vacation and long road trips, with family and friends. And while many start as wonderful memories, many end in tragic circumstances. In 2013 in Arizona alone, there were a total of 107,348 accidents, 777 of which were fatal and 5,190 were alcohol-related incidents.
It is recommended that you travel prepared and plan, it will make a much smoother transition to the travel/vacation minded!
Buckle Up. Every Trip. Every Time: Whether you are going to the store a block away or across the country, stop and buckle that seatbelt. Not only is it the law, but buckling that seatbelt can save your life in an accident.
Don’t Drink and Drive: You heard it once and you will hear it again, after all, you are a valued member of Insurance Professionals of Arizona…don’t drink and drive! Every 51 minutes, someone in the United States dies in an alcohol-related accident. Definitely think, before you drink. Call a friend, cab, get a designated driver for your night out. Don’t risk hurting yourself or others.
Check Tire Pressure: Be sure to check your tire pressure, tread wear, spare, and fluids before that vacation. Vehicle maintenance, before a trip, can prevent breakdowns, and accidents. Go to your local repair shop, oil place, or if you know, do minor repairs and change yourself!
Keep Kids Safe: If you have children traveling with you, be sure to check that the child’s seat and booster chairs are installed properly and that they are properly restrained to the seat that is fitted and designed to best protect them. Do NOT leave children or pets unattended in hot vehicles, it happens more than you may think, vehicles in a shaded area in 90* heat can reach internal ranges up to 115* and if that vehicle were in the sun, the inside can reach 135* or hotter. Cracking windows or doors does little to vent, or make it cooler. Leaving pets or children in these cars can cause hyperthermia, heatstroke, and death.
Through these hot summer months, and really any time of the year, especially in Arizona, drivers and their passengers should utilize these minor suggestions to stay safe during their travels and everyday commute.