Embarking on a summer road trip is an experience every person should have at least once in their lives. While lots of fun and adventure await, safety is crucial when driving long distances. By being prepared and taking the following steps before taking off on your journey, you can enjoy a happy and worry-free excursion.
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Have a Mechanic Check Your Vehicle Before Hitting the Road
A pre-trip assessment by a skilled mechanic will prevent breakdowns and provide peace of mind while you’re on the road. Your mechanic can check the brakes, fluid levels, windshield wipers, tires, battery, air conditioning, and other components. If any maintenance is necessary, you can have it performed before driving a long distance.
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Schedule Plenty of Rest Stops on the Way
Driving while drowsy carries the same risks as driving under the influence. Fatigue can cloud your judgement, impair your response time, and endanger yourself and your passengers. You can combat drowsy driving by scheduling rest stops and breaks during your journey. You should also share driving duties when possible to prevent fatigue from setting in.
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Be Sure to Pack Lots of Water and Other Drinks
Summer road trips usually involve high temperatures, especially for people traveling around New Mexico. Water is your best friend, in this case, as it will keep you properly hydrated during your trip. You may also want to pack a few sports drinks in your cooler as well, as these beverages help replace electrolytes depleted in high temperature conditions.
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Make Sure Everyone Is Secured in the Vehicle
While it may be tempting to allow kids and pets to be unsecured in the vehicle during long trips, doing so can lead to a tragic outcome in the event of an accident. Children should be placed in car seats or secured via seatbelts, while pets should remain in carriers or be secured via harnesses and leashes. Along with securing all vehicle inhabitants, make sure any items in the vehicle are properly secured as well, as loose items can cause severe injuries during accidents.
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Never Drive Under the Influence of Alcohol
Road trips offer an opportunity to cut loose, but you can’t sacrifice safety for a good time. Never get behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking, as you’ll put yourself and others at immense risk. If you’ve been drinking, find someone sober to drive. You can also secure lodging for the night to provide time for the effects of the alcohol to wear off.
Quality Auto Repair and Maintenance in Las Cruces
If you’re planning a summer getaway and need a thorough check of your vehicle before getting started, ABC Paint & Body can help. Along with our trusted auto collision service, our talented mechanics also perform auto repairs and routine maintenance to keep your vehicle in top shape. Call 575-524-2004 today to schedule an appointment or contact us for more information on our shop.
