Safe Summer Road Trips

DEM Blogger

July 5, 2018

It’s time for summer road trips! Whether you are going cross country on your motorcycle or on a family road trip in the minivan, it is important to know how to prepare so you can be safe.

Here are some ways to prepare your vehicle for your next summer road trip.

• Check to see if your vehicle needs an oil change, battery check, or a new set of tires.
• Be sure the air conditioning works. No one enjoys travel on humid day in a hot vehicle.
• Make sure every passenger is wearing a seat belt. If you have children who still use a car seat, make sure they are in the appropriate seat for their weight. If you are unsure, check out this link.
• If you are going on a long trip with a pet, be sure to have enough food, water, favorite toys, and treats.
• Have an emergency vehicle kit handy.
• Pack plenty of snacks and water. This is great in case of an emergency and your vehicle breaks down, but it will also save you time and money at rest stops 🙂

Summer motorcycle prep is different, but just as important.

• Make sure everything works. Check the tire pressure, break lights, etc.
• ALWAYS wear an appropriate size helmet. Here is a helpful video for deciding that.
• Pack plenty of water. Although there is a breeze, riding in the summer heat can cause heat exhaustion or even a heat stroke. Stay hydrated and have more than enough water on the ride.
• Get appropriate summer gear for long rides. It may be tempting to wear shorts and a T-shirt, but wearing a ventilated jacket and pants will keep you the safest. Cooling gear can be pricey, but worth the expense.
• Sunglasses aren’t only a stylish accessory, but also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
• If you have a passenger, be sure to have appropriate gear for them as well. An extra helmet is extremely important.
• Don’t attempt to travel farther than you can go. Know your limits with speed and distance and don’t try to challenge yourself or other drivers.

BOTH vehicles and motorcycles need to SHARE the road. This will reduce your chance of an accident. Also, check to see if either your vehicle or motorcycle has any current recalls. You can do so here. Summer road trips are most fun when they are safe!

Information from the National Highway Traffic Administration and Gallen Insurance were used in this blog post.

Review our page on travel plans.