AAA OFFERS TRAVEL TIPS FOR MOTORISTS OVER LONG HOLIDAY

Americans who had to cancel getaways and get-togethers last year because of the pandemic are making up for lost time this holiday season.

Triple A predicts more than 109 million people — an almost 34% increase from 2020 — will travel 50 miles or more as they hit the road, board airplanes or take other transportation out of town between Dec. 23 and Jan. 2.

And about 100-million of those travelers will be driving.

That’s why they’re advising people planning to drive make sure their vehicle is ready for the road.

Triple-A spokeswoman Montrae Waiters said the most common reasons for needing a road rescue are flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts.

“Tires are among the most important and easiest things drivers can check themselves,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Check both the tread and tire pressure. Driving on under-inflated tires is the #1 cause for tire blow-outs, but there are many other things that can go wrong on the road. So, consider getting a professional inspection before your trip. A trusted mechanic can check your tires, battery, brakes, belts and hoses in hopes of helping you avoid spending the holidays on the roadside.”

Also, check your tire tread by inserting a quarter upside down between the tread.  If you can still see the top of George Washington’s head, you need new tires.

But there are those other last-minute, unexpected road trips where you don’t have time to get the car, truck or RV checked ahead of time.

In that case, Waiters offers a couple of checks you should do yourself before heading out.

• Battery – If your vehicle is slow to start, your battery is dying. Battery life is shortened by extreme temperatures and vibration caused by poor connections. Have a service professional check your battery to determine the remaining capacity and to ensure the hardware is secure.
• Wiper blades and windshield cleaner fluid – If wipers streak or fail to clear the windshield thoroughly, it’s time for new blades.
• Brakes – If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, get them professionally inspected. If a repair or replacement is needed, use the Repair Cost Estimator to help anticipate costs.
• Belts and hoses – Replace belts that are cracked, glazed, or frayed. As a general rule, drive belts should be replaced every 60,000 miles. Also, radiator hoses should not leak or be worn, brittle, or excessively soft.
• Engine oil and other fluids – Ensure engine oil, coolant, and brake transmission, and power steering fluids are all at the correct levels for safe vehicle operation. If you’re unsure, ask a pro.

And have an emergency kit on board. Kits should include a cell phone charger, car battery booster cables, flashlight and extra batteries, emergency flares or reflectors, paper towels, and clean rags.

Also, remember to bring first-aid supplies, drinking water, extra medications or prescriptions, and non-perishable snacks for people and pets.

And finally, Waiters warned the holidays can be a stressful time. So, be patient with other motorists to help prevent road rage.

•  Do Not Offend: Never cause another driver to change their speed or direction. That means not forcing another driver to use their brakes, or turn the steering wheel in response to something you have done.
  • Be Tolerant and Forgiving: The other driver may just be having a really bad day. Assume that it is not personal.
  • Do Not Respond: Avoid eye contact, don’t make gestures, maintain space around your vehicle and contact 9-1-1 if needed.