VIDEO: Summer Driving Advice

Temperatures are rising and it’s now the season for barbecues, graduations, and longer road trips — both business-related and personal.

Regardless of whether a long trip’s goal is to meet with clients and vendors or with family and friends, drivers need to remember the importance of safe driving techniques, preventive maintenance, and making certain that everyone in the vehicle is buckled up.

Here are some summer driving tips from State Farm you can pass along:

  • Make sure the radiator, pressure cap, belts, and hoses are inspected and in good shape with no signs of blisters, cracks, or cuts in the rubber.
  • Make sure fluid levels are checked — brake, automatic transmission, power steering, windshield washer, and coolant. Each reservoir should be full. If there are signs of leakage, the vehicle needs to be serviced.
  • Check the air pressure in all tires, including the spare.
  • Make sure the wiper blades function properly.
  • Check the battery life and make certain the batteries and battery cables are inspected.
  • Make sure the brake pads and linings are inspected for wear.
  • Change the oil and filter according to the manufacturer’s service interval specifications.
  • Test the headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and interior lights.
  • Pack an emergency kit that includes

      — Jumper cables

      — Flashlight

      — Emergency flat tire repair

      — Gloves, blankets, and towels

      — Hazard triangle, road flares, brightly colored distress sign, or “call police” flag

      — Screwdrivers and wrenches

      — First-aid kit

      — Cell phone and charger

      — Water for both the car radiator and the occupants

      — High-calorie, non-perishable food.

To watch a summer driving tips video, produced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, click on the photo or link below the headline.

Originally posted on Automotive Fleet

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