Road Trip Ready?
Are You Road Trip Ready?
The moment Henry Ford’s first Model T rolled off the assembly line, car culture captured America’s imagination. It was the ultimate symbol of freedom, as people could now travel across the continent in a way never before accessible to them.
On the Road Again
It wasn’t long before the lure of the open road called, siren-like, beckoning the populace to traverse the country, resulting in the mythologizing of the, now classic, “road trip” experience–an concept immortalized and romanticized in songs, Jack Kerouac poems and a myriad of films, such as Easy Rider, National Lampoon’s Vacation, and Thelma and Louise.
No Tragic Endings
While these films are all classic road trip movies, none of them end particularly well! Who can forget the condition of the Griswald’s Ford LTD Country Squire station wagon at the end of the movie–and that’s nothing compared to the ending of Thelma and Louise! Which leads us to the topic of this week’s blog–road trip safety!
Before You Explore
The road trip is certainly an exciting way to travel, as it gives you a more intimate travel experience–the ability to discover the nooks and crannies of the country that just can’t be evinced any other way. How else could you see the biggest ball of twine in the world, or try the greasiest chicken-fried steak! However, before you stack the luggage on the roof rack and choose your road trip tunes, we suggest taking a look at some handy safety road trip tips!
Maintenance Check!
Before leaving for longer road trips, we highly recommend taking your car to a trusted auto mechanic for a full inspection. The last thing you want is car trouble in the middle of nowhere! Make sure to get all fluid levels checked, especially the engine oil. It’s also best to make sure your tires have a healthy level of tread and the battery is in good shape.
In Case of Emergency
As the Boy Scouts say, “Always be Prepared.” It’s essential to have an emergency kit with you before you head out on the road. Some essential items are:
● Flashlight
● Jumper Cables
● Water
● Flares
● Blankets
● Extra batteries
● Cell phone charger
● Tire jack and spare tire
● Non-perishable snacks
Take Shifts
Many accidents occur as a result of drivers falling asleep at the wheel. In order to prevent this dangerous situation, share the driving with your traveling companion. If you’re traveling alone, be sure to take plenty of breaks. Getting out of the car, getting some fresh air and a snack is best. If you feel yourself getting drowsy at the wheel, pull over at the nearest rest stop to refresh yourself, or take a nap if necessary!
Share Your Itinerary
Before you drive off, be sure to share your itinerary with a friend or family member. If you divert from your plan, it’s best to keep them updated via text or email. Make sure they know the make, model and license plate number of your car as well.
