Road Trip Tips during a COVID-19 Summer

By Mike Glisson | July 10, 2020

According to the Star Tribune, “In a survey of 1,000 Americans, more than half said they planned to visit family or friends in the U.S. this summer — and 73% of them will do so by car, according to a study by tourism research firm Longwoods International. Likewise, GasBuddy found that one-third of Americans plan to hit the road this summer. In a FinanceBuzz survey of 1,500 Americans, 48% said they plan to skip flying for at least a year.”

How can you prepare for a road trip?

Since summer auto trips have taken the forefront of travel plans, Glisson Law wants to remind drivers to take precaution.

First be sure your car has been routinely checked and maintenance such as tune-ups, oil changes, battery checks and tire rotations are up to date.
Be sure your tires, battery, lights, windshield wipers, air conditioner, cooling system, fluid level, belts and hoses are in good condition.  (NHTSA).

More than ever it is important to plan your route ahead of time. Not only for weather and road conditions, but also to check for in-person toll collectors, stopping for food/gas and knowing face mask laws within your visiting state. 

When you do stop for gas keep in mind that according to USA Today, “Health officials recommend using disposable gloves while pumping your gas, rather than trying to wipe it down with a disinfecting wet wipe. You can easily discard the glove outside in the nearest trash can after you’re done pumping. While paying for your gas, use your credit card instead of cash if possible.”

Road Trip Checklist

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) created a list of items to be sure you have with you on a road trip:

  • Cell phone and charger
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Flares and a white flag
  • Jumper cables
  • Tire pressure gauge
  • Jack (and ground mat) for changing a tire
  • Work gloves and a change of clothes
  • Basic repair tools and some duct tape (for temporarily repairing a hose leak)
  • Water and paper towels for cleaning up
  • Nonperishable food, drinking water, and medicines
  • Extra windshield washer fluid
  • Maps
  • Emergency blankets, towels and coats

Glisson Law is going to add some COVID-19 precaution items:

  • Masks
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Gloves
  • Disinfecting wipes

Accidents happen, even if you’ve followed all safety guidelines. If you find yourself in an auto accident, you are not alone. Attorneys at Glisson Law will provide legal representation to ensure that your voice is heard. Contact Glisson Law and let us help you with a free consultation.

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