Holiday Road Trip Safety
It's hard to believe, but we're just two weeks away from Thanksgiving, the holiday that inspires some of the most congested roads in the country. Whether you're holiday plans have you going over the river and through the woods, or just down the Interstate, these suggestions will help you and yours get there safely.
- Prep your car: Even in mild climates, like California and Texas, fall and winter come with unexpected weather conditions, so be sure you have a certified mechanic check your brakes, heater, defroster, antifreeze, windshield wipers, tire pressure, and oil before you leave.
- Plan your route: Even if you're pretty sure about your route use a mapping program (or an actual map) to plan the most direct way to get where you're going. Then, be sure to check out the weather reports for everywhere you'll pass through along the way. There may be no problem with the roads near your home, but the roads between home and your final destination could be wet, icy, or snowy. Even if weather conditions are fine, there may be road construction that will cause delays - planning ahead can help you find a detour before it becomes an emergency.
- Bring an emergency kit: You may not have to worry about driving through a blizzard, but even a driving rainstorm can force you to have to pull over, so bring an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, blankets, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and bottled water. If snow and ice are a possibility, you'll want to add a shovel, ice scraper, and some cat litter or sand to put under your tires for traction.
- Use restraints: Thanksgiving weekend is one of the deadliest times of the year for automobile travel, so be sure to use your seat belt - they really do save lives. In addition, be certain infants and children who use safety seats are securely strapped into the back seat, where any child who is under six years old or 60 pounds should be riding as well. Also, don't forget that if your pets are traveling with you, they, too, should be restrained or crated, with the crates tied down.
- Allow extra time: Because so many people travel over Thanksgiving weekend, you should assume that the roads will be crowded, and expect delays. If your schedule allows, consider starting your journey on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, instead of the Wednesday, and returning Sunday night or Monday morning.
While all of these things can help you get you to Grandma's house (or wherever else you're going) safely, it's also a good idea to be sure to bring along your cell phone and a car-charger. While you're at it, program your insurance company's phone number into your contact list - just in case.

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