For Immediate Release:
June 22, 2017

Contact:
Tim Weisberg
OTS Marketing and Public Affairs
timothy.weisberg@ots.ca.gov
(916) 509-3020

Summer Safety Tips for a Fun and Memorable Road Trip

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – School is out and temperatures are rising, signaling summer vacation. Whether you’re traveling to a vacation destination or commuting long hours in traffic, there’s no avoiding the crowds and the multitudes of drivers on the roadways. A few hours of prep beforehand can save you from being stranded on the side of the road resulting in a repair bill and a ruined vacation. Whether you have longstanding travel plans, a spontaneous road trip, or a staycation in town planned, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reminds you
that a little car maintenance and safety preparation can go a long way – saving you and possibly your vacation.

“Summer travel plans are often a time for making memories, and planning ahead will ensure those memories are positive,” said OTS Director Rhonda Craft. “It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of travel, but spending a little time beforehand to ensure that everything is in order can greatly reduce tragedy on the road.”

Plan Ahead. Plan, map, and estimate the distance of your trip ahead of time. Know where you’ll stop for breaks, meals, and hotels. Visit www.quickmap.dot.ca.gov for real time highway conditions.

Inspect Your Vehicle. Check for proper tire tread and inflation, including the spare. Inspect the engine, battery, hoses, belts, and fluids for wear and adequate levels. Test the lights and wipers, and clean the windows inside and out. Have an Emergency Roadside Kit. Visit roadside-emergency-kit for what to include.

Make Safety a Priority. Buckle up, every trip, every time. Double check that young passengers are using the correct car seat for their height and weight and that it is installed properly. Visit www.ots.ca.gov/Child_Passenger_Safety.asp for assistance. If you have a vehicle issue, drive out of traffic lanes and off the highway if possible – freeway shoulders are not a safe place for repair work. Don’t text or talk on
your cell phone while driving, and avoid programming your mobile GPS while behind the wheel. To avoid fatigue, alternate driving duties with other passengers. Drowsy driving can affect you like drunk driving For more information on all OTS efforts and a full list of summer and winter driving tips, visit www.ots.ca.gov. For additional safe driving tips and information, please visit the OTS Facebook page at
www.facebook.com/CaliforniaOTS or follow OTS on Twitter @OTS_CA.


 

 

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