3 On Your Side: Summer Road Trip Advice
By Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- If a road trip is on your summer agenda, you'll want to make sure that your car and family are ready for the adventure. 3 On Your Side Consumer Reporter Jim Donovan finds that budgeting a little time before you head out could make for a much more pleasant journey.
Venturing beyond the Jersey Shore or the Poconos? If so, you'll want to be sure that any long summer road trip is a safe one. Taking a few minutes before you set out on a road trip could prevent a dangerous and costly mishap along the way.
First, give your car a pre-trip check up. Inspect your tires, wiper blades, fluid levels, cooling system, lights and air conditioning. You may need to make a trip to the mechanic, but better now than during your trip.
A long trip is a perfect chance to make sure car and booster seats are properly installed and still fit your child. Remember, all children 13 and under should ride in the back seat.
An emergency roadside kit is a road trip essential. Along with supplies to handle minor car emergencies, be sure to include a flashlight, first aid kit, non-perishable food, drinking water and any medications you might need during your trip.
Finally, don't forget a good old fashioned map. Don't always rely on your GPS to work.
For more info, visit: www.nhtsa.gov/links/SummerDrivingTips
