Planning a road trip?

Last updated: 7/7/2010 10:40:00 AM

Make sure to follow these vehicle safety tips for the perfect vacation.

There are many safety concerns to consider when planning a road trip, such as staying awake behind the wheel, being prepared for a tire change, and keeping your cell phone charged in case there’s an emergency. One thing you may not have considered is the importance of safely packing your vehicle.

Here are some vehicle packing tips for safe traveling:

Heavy objects need to be packed as far forward in the vehicle as possible. Objects such as laptops, cell phones, and even sippy cups can become projectile objects in the event of an accident or when the brakes are slammed. Try to pack loose objects, heavy or light, underneath more stable objects, and make sure to strap everything down.
When considering packing large or heavy items on top of your vehicle, keep in mind that SUVs have a higher center of gravity and can become top heavy with cargo on the roof, increasing the chances of a roll over in a crash.
Check how much weight your vehicle can carry safely (often found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the front door). A vehicle with a person in each seat could be close to its maximum carry weight.

After packing your vehicle safely, make sure to check the air pressure in your tires. Keeping the right amount of air pressure in your tires is as important as changing your oil, and there are significant safety and economic benefits–you enhance vehicle handling which helps prevent accidents, your tires wear less and last longer, and you save fuel. Routinely checking tire pressure will help ensure a safe vacation for you and your family.

Happy travels!

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