Heading out on a fun road trip with friends or family? Check out these four tips to keep you safe from a car emergency.
Check Your Car Before You Leave
The worst thing about breaking down during a road trip is that the problem often could've been avoided by carefully checking your car for issues before you left. A few days prior to any long trip, give your car components a check-up. If there are any problems, you'll be able to get them fixed while you're still in your hometown so they don't leave you stranded on the middle of a highway. In particular, pay close attention to your tyres, brake pads, lights, fluids, wipers, clutch and steering wheel.
Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car
Thankfully, many minor breakdowns can be solved with basic car knowledge and the right tools. Make sure you have the right tools to hand during your road trip by packing an emergency kit to keep in your car. Some of the items you should always have include a flashlight (with extra batteries) in case you break down at night, reflectors to keep you safe while fixing your car, a fire extinguisher, jumper cables and a jump starter.
Stick to the Beaten Path
Many road trippers make the mistake of going off-road while driving. Sometimes it's to explore a new area; other times it's to avoid slow traffic. Whatever the reason, going off-road is never a good idea unless you have the right car, you know the land in and out and you have experience on uneven terrain. If these criteria don't apply, you could quickly find yourself stuck in the mud—literally—or navigating dangerous terrain. Always stick to the beaten path when you're travelling. Well-marked roads may be slower, but taking a little extra time to get to your destination will keep you safe.
Save a Tow Truck Company's Number
Finally, it's important to remember that while all these tips will reduce your risk of a breakdown, they can't eliminate that risk completely. There's always a chance you could find yourself stuck on the side of a road miles away from home. That's why it's good to save the number of a tow truck company in your phone before you leave. That way, help is never more than a phone call away. Do some research to make sure you can call a company that is able to help you and your vehicle.