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Say Goodbye to Summer on a Safe Note - With Tips From AAA

Grandpa and granddaughter traveling by JJ DiUbaldi
Photo copyright J.J. DiUbaldi www.flickr.com/photos/zepfanman/ http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (August 29, 2019) – Labor Day weekend is the last holiday before school is in session. For some, this is the last chance for a family vacation. For travelers that are planning a road trip this Labor Day, AAA has a few reminders that can keep the party going and save a life in the process. Drivers can add safety to the travel list by using seat belts for all passengers and reduce distractions in the vehicle on these very busy travel days. AAA’s campaign to eliminate distracted driving encourages drivers “Don’t Drive Intoxicated, Don’t Drive Intexticated”. 

 

Distracted driving kills an average of 9 people and injures 1,000 each day in the United States(NHTSA) and is as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. “With so many taking to the roads, we remind drivers to keep their eyes on the road, their hands on the wheel and their minds on their driving.  We lose too many people to motor vehicle crashes each year.  Don’t become a statistic this holiday.” states Georjeane Blumling, public affairs vice president for AAA Tidewater Virginia.

 

AAA offers more tips to make those road trips both fun and safe.

Car Care Tips:

 

·      Oil - Check both the level and condition of the car’s motor oil. Consult the owner’s manual for recommended oil change interval and suggested grade of oil.

·      Battery - Make sure the battery terminals and cables are securely attached and free of corrosion.

·      Radiator - Check the antifreeze/coolant level and top off with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water if needed.  Do not remove the radiator pressure cap when the engine is hot.

·      Tires - Check the air pressure and look for damage, bulges, and excessive or uneven tread wear.

·      Windshield Wipers - Make sure your wipers can keep your windshield clean and streak-free.

·      Light and Signals - Check headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Keep all lights clear of dirt, especially headlights.

·      Use headlights at all times – so others see your vehicle more easily.

·      Emergency Kit - Should include water, non-perishable food items, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, road flares or an emergency beacon, basic hand tools, and a first aid kit.

 

Driving Tips:

 

·      Check the weather forecasts along your planned route – so you are prepared for conditions.

·      Make sure you are well rested.

·      Share the driving duties with other passengers.

·      Always Buckle Your Seat Belt and put children under 8 in appropriate child safety restraints.

·      Keep your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road, and your mind on your driving.

·      Stay abreast of local forecasts both at your departure city and your destination

 

As part of North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA Tidewater Virginia provides its more than 330,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding AAA Tidewater Virginia has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. For more information, visit AAA.com and follow us on Twitter at Twitter.com/AAATidewaterVA or Facebook at facebook.com/AAATidewaterVirginia.

CST 1016202-80 Copyright © Tidewater Automobile Association of Virginia, Incorporated. All Rights Reserved.
AAA Tidewater Virginia is a member club affiliated with the American Automobile Association (AAA) national federation and serves members in the Tidewater Virginia region (All Hampton Roads cities, including Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg; Virginia's Eastern Shore; as well as the following counties: Greensville, Surry, Brunswick, Isle of Wight, Gloucester, Lancaster, Middlesex, Richmond County, Southampton, Sussex, Mecklenburg, James City County, York, Lunenburg, Essex, King & Queen, Mathews, Northumberland, and Westmoreland).