Summer Road Trip Accidents
Warm weather months are a great time to hop in your car and take a road trip with family and friends. Unfortunately, as summer is also the height of tourist season in our area, this means you will have plenty of company on the road, making car accidents and injuries more likely to occur. Brush up on safety with our road trip travel tips before heading out, to help to ensure you and your passenger’s safety.
Getting Your Vehicle Ready
Automotive problems and break downs can make car accidents and injuries more likely, so be sure your car is in good running order before taking any trips. Consumer Reports recommends checking the following:
- Fluid levels: Check your oil, transmission, power steering and brake fluid, as well as your coolant. To check for leaks, leave your car running ten minutes in your driveway, then look underneath.
- Belts and hoses: Most belts and hoses have a lifespan of roughly four or five years. Check for cracks, worn spots, or signs of shredding. Make note of any squeaking noises that could be a sign of a loose belt.
- Battery: Make sure brake cables are fully attached and free of corrosion, and keep jumper cables in your trunk.
- Brakes: If you hear grinding or screeching, take your car to a mechanic.
- Tires: Make sure they are in good condition and properly inflated.
- Visibility: Make sure your head and tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals are clean and working. Clean your windshield inside and out, and replace wipers and add fluid as needed.
At the first sign of problems on the road, the American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends pulling over into a gas station or parking lot. If you do get stranded on the side of a road or highway, notify local law enforcement and wait in your car until help arrives.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
Safety On The Road
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reports that of the nearly 120,000 traffic collisions that occur each year in our state, the majority are due to speeding, driving under the influence, and aggressive driving behaviors such as failing to yield, improper passing, and tailgating. To protect yourself on the road, follow these safety tips:
- Make sure you are adequately rested before getting behind the wheel
- Beware of over-the-counter or prescription medications that could make you groggy or impair your judgement
- Pay attention to local speed limits, and slow down if it is rainy or foggy
- Avoid consuming alcohol if you intend to drive
- Do not engage aggressive drivers. Switch lanes and let them pass, or pull over and notify law enforcement
Reach Out to an Attorney for Help
If you are involved in a road trip accident, notify the police, exchange insurance information with other drivers, and get medical care right away. Before making any statements or accepting any settlements from an insurance company, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm first. Our South Carolina car accident attorneys can negotiate on your behalf, helping you to get the maximum amount of compensation you need to recover.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
