Oak Hill, WV (WOAY) – Summer travel is heating up, and the July 4th weekend is one of the biggest times to get away.
There are many ways to make your trip more efficient.
“Maintenance is so very important because one of the biggest ways to be inefficient in getting to your travel destination is to end up stranded roadside,” said AAA Bluegrass Public & Government Affairs Manager Lori Weaver Hawkins.
Whether you are traveling over July 4th or taking a summer vacation, ensure your vehicle is up to date, fluids have been checked — topped off or flushed. Tires and batteries are the biggest reasons why AAA gets calls for roadside assistance.
“Ensure you have adequate tread. You want to check for any kind of bulges that might look like they’re wearing unevenly,” Hawkins said. “Be sure the pressure is correct on those tires. Sometimes the front tires will have a different recommended pressure than the back tires. Be sure the pressure is correct on those tires. Softer tires will heat up more quickly on hot roadways in driving distances, and that can increase the chance of a blowout.”
Don’t forget to keep a summer kit in your vehicle, too, including a flashlight with batteries, phone charger, jumper cables, rags/paper towels, reflective triangles, and flares.
“Make sure you have adequate water for all the occupants in the car. If you’re taking along the family dog, make sure they have a bowl with some water as well,” said Hawkins. “That’s important in this heat, should you end up in a delay or stranded roadside.”
And don’t let your fuel tank get too low.
“Because you could end up in some traffic congestion, with your vehicle already sitting still with the air conditioning on,” Hawkins said. “Don’t let that happen to you. Map these refueling spots along the way using the AAA app.”
And give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. Leave in the early morning to beat some of the heavier traffic.
“We don’t want anyone feeling frustrated behind the wheel. So just have in your head that it’s going to be busier — plan for it,” said Hawkins. “We always remind folks, make sure your AAA membership is up to date. So if you do end up stranded roadside, you can call us.”
Leave the fireworks at the July 4th festivals.
“The heat sometimes can escalate things, and people get tressed by that and uncomfortable,” Hawkins said. “Keep your cool and you’ll get there.”
