Eight tips for the road ahead

Be Safe, Be Smart On A Long-Distance Road Trip on your Motor Cycle or in your car or RV.

Whether you’re traveling alone, with a buddy or with your spouse on a motorcycle or a car full of kids, there are few things more “American” than the long-distance road trip. Countless vacation travelers will drive the highways looking for fun and making memories with every mile. If traveling down the “holiday road” is in your plans, take the time to prepare for your trip. You’ll have a more enjoyable vacation if you plan carefully. Here are a few driving tips, courtesy of Big Pine Insurance Agency.

1) Maintain your motorcycle and car. Make sure your vehicle is up to date on its maintenance schedule, and be sure to check the battery and tires.  Your local Tire Store will typically do a pressure check as a no fee service.

2) Plan your trip and know where you’re going. Call ahead for proper and safe directions to get you to your destination safely and have maps of the area on hand to help you navigate once you are off the main road. You’re more likely to make good decisions, even in dangerous situations, if you’re
clearheaded and know where you’re going.

3) Be alert. Seems obvious, but driver inattention is surely the cause of a lot of accidents. If you stay focused while on the road and plan carefully, you will have a wonderful summer road trip.

4) Take precaution with a cell phone. Cell phones can be a lifesaver when you need immediate access to emergency services after an accident. Keep your phone within easy reach and get to know its features. However, use it prudently. Reports suggest that driving while talking on the phone increases accident rates. In Utah it is against the law to use your cell phone unless you
have a hands free system.

5) Keep a safe distance bubble if on our cycle from the next vehicle. Wear your helmet and protective riding gear or leathers. If in your car wear your seat belt. Whether or not it’s required by law in the state through which you’re driving, always wear your riding helmet or seat belt in your car as a
safety precaution.

6) Protect your motorcycle or car against theft. Help deter criminals from taking your cycle or vehicle with steering wheel locks, switches that disable fuel or ignition systems, and electronic tracking devices.

7) If you’re in an accident. Taking immediate steps if you’ve been in an accident can protect your family and your cycle or car from further damage.  Stop immediately and make sure your cycle or car is not blocking traffic. Turn off your vehicle to keep it from overheating or catching fire. Warn oncoming cars using road flares or orange triangle reflectors. After you have protected yourself and rider or your family, call your insurance company immediately.

8) Make sure your auto insurance and motorcycle insurance is up to date.  Before you even leave the driveway, you want to be sure you’re protected when you’re on the road and far from home. An independent insurance agent or broker can provide the personal service and advice you need to travel in confidence. 

To learn more about what an independent insurance agency offers you, visit http://bigpineinsurance.com/or call and talk to one of our agents at: 801-607-5241.

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