Tampa Bay Injury Attorney Blog
Thanksgiving is upon us, and that means millions of people are hitting the U.S. roadways to get to their families and friends for the holiday.
A spokesman for AAA estimates that 2.6 million Floridians will be road tripping this year (2021), which is 200,000 more than last year. With so many drivers on the roads this year, AAA also estimates that 400,000 motorists will need roadside assistance this Thanksgiving weekend.
So, what are the most common auto issues for road trippers?
- Dead Batteries
- Flat Tires
- Lock Outs
Due to the stretching months of the COVID19 pandemic, many motorists may have neglected their vehicles and left them sitting for long stretches. This means that something like low tire pressure could easily turn into a big problem once out on the road. Underinflated tires can quickly lead to tire blowouts, which is the last thing you want to deal with once your trip is underway and you are on the highway travelling 50-60 mph.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), 2020 saw 3,069 tire-related crashes in the Sunshine State, resulting in 184 injuries and 61 deaths.
Luckily, AAA has a pretty cool trick to check your tire inflation level. Start by grabbing a quarter. Then stick Washington’s into the tread, and if you can still see the top of his head, then this means your tread is too low and it might be time to replace your tire.
AAA also noted that you should check these 5 things on your vehicle before making any long trips:
- Tires
- Battery
- Brakes
- Fluids
- Wiper Blades
If your car has been sitting for extended periods of time, then sediment can be lingering at the bottom of those systems, so you may need to flush your brake fluids, coolant, and power steering because if left untreated then your car could overheat, your brake cylinder could fail, or power steering pump could go out.
Before you head out for the holiday, get your car serviced by an expert. A simple inspection could make all the difference in how your road trip goes and whether you make it safely to Thanksgiving dinner or not.
Prep Your Car for Safe Travels
Just because your car has been running without issues, never assume it is ready for a road trip. Our Tampa Car Accident Lawyers at Whittel & Melton recommend taking your car to a trusted mechanic for a thorough inspection before you head out for your long Thanksgiving trip. Your mechanic should change your oil, top off all fluids, rotate your tires, check your tire air pressure, and make sure all components of your vehicle are in excellent condition for travel. All repair should be made before you make your trip.
A proper maintenance check before you head out on a road trip can keep you from being stranded on the side of the road in an area that you are not familiar with. Most road trips mean many hours spent in the car or behind the wheel, so you want to make your trip as pleasant as possible.
We want to make sure you get to your destination safely this Thanksgiving holiday. However, we know that accidents happen. If you are involved in a car accident this holiday weekend, then we are available 24/7 to help you. You can call us day or night at 813-221-3200 or contact us online to request a free consultation.
Have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!