AAA estimated that more than 50 million Americans would travel at least 50 miles away from home for Thanksgiving in 2018. While they haven’t released their predictions for Thanksgiving 2019 yet, you can bet that millions of people will hit the road this year. If you’re planning a trip, the following traveling safety tips will help you make it back home safely to Tampa, FL.
Choose Travel Times Wisely
Plan to complete your Thanksgiving road trip when you’re well rested and clear-headed. For example, it’s best to leave in the early morning after a good night of sleep than to leave directly after work in the evening.
Eliminating distractions while driving is also important, so an early morning or late afternoon departure time may mean children sleep through much of the journey. Early mornings may also mean fewer distractions from your cellphone. Put the phone down and focus completely on the beauty outside your windshield and obstacles on the road.
Pack an Extra Bag
You never know when an emergency will occur in November, even right here in Florida. Pack a first aid kit, flashlight, blanket, and small supply of food and water in your trunk. If you get stuck on the highway or must spend a night on the side of the road, you should have what you need to survive the chilly weather.
Don’t Neglect Basic Maintenance
A small crack or chip in your glass can quickly become a more serious problem that interferes with your ability to drive safely. If you know you have a blemish or two in your car’s windshield or side windows, get it fixed before heading out for Thanksgiving. Even if your trip is only two or three hours, chilly weather, debris from the road, and other vehicles are all threats to your safety when your glass is compromised.
You should also have an oil change and inspect your tires before hitting the road. Makes sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and your wiper fluid reservoir is full.
To learn more about auto glass services in Tampa or surrounding areas, call us today at (866) 300-5013.