Christmas is here.  It is a time for joy, warmth, and family gatherings, often involving shopping for gifts and traveling. Christmas is all about showing your loved ones that you care for them. At Tennessee Auto Insurance Agency, we also care for you, which is why we have delicately chosen the best safety tips that you should consider on your way home this Christmas.

1. Ensure Your Car is Road-Ready

Before embarking on your trip, give your car a thorough check-up to avoid mechanical issues. Check your tires, fluid levels, lights, brakes, and battery. If possible, take your car to the mechanics for a quick inspection before your trip.

Check Tires

Ensure your tires are correctly inflated and have sufficient tread. The tread on your tires provides the necessary grip to keep your vehicle stable on the road. Check the tread depth using a tread depth gauge or the penny test. Another tip is to look for areas on the tire that are more worn than others. Regular rotation can help tires wear evenly, and it's typically recommended every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.

Check Fluids

Proper fluid maintenance keeps your car running smoothly and prevents breakdowns and costly repairs down the road. Top up if the oil doesn't reach the 'full' mark. Also, consider the oil's color and consistency—dark, gritty oil needs changing.

Don't neglect your windshield washer fluid. Clear visibility is crucial, especially with the potential for salt and grime on the roads. Make sure your windshield washer fluid is full to ensure you can always keep your windshield clear.

Lights and brakes

Ensuring your vehicle's lights and brakes properly increases your safety by enhancing visibility and reducing stopping distances. This is especially important in winter weather and increased holiday traffic. You can do this by turning on your headlights and taillights to make sure they are working. Check both the low and high beams to ensure proper functionality. Have someone stand outside the car to confirm that the front and rear lights illuminate correctly.

While the headlights are on, press the brake pedal and use the turn signals to ensure all these lights are functional. Again, having someone outside the car helps or use a reflective surface like a garage door or wall.

Please ensure all lights are clean and clear of snow, ice, or dirt that might obscure them. If any bulbs are out or dim, replace them before you depart. Carrying spare bulbs in your vehicle can also be a wise precaution.

Also remember to check your brakes. You can check your brake performance by listening for any unusual sounds when you apply the brakes. Squealing or grinding noises can indicate that your brake pads are worn and need replacing.

Battery check

Cold weather can be harsh on batteries, so make sure yours is fully charged and in good condition. Consider the age of your battery. Most car batteries have a lifespan of 3-5 years. If yours is older or showing signs of struggle (like slow engine cranks), it might be time to replace it before your trip.

2. Get Proper Rest Before the Drive

Driving tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Ensure you get a good night's sleep before you hit the road. Pull over and take a break if you're feeling drowsy while driving. 

Long drives can be exhausting, and driver fatigue is a major risk factor for accidents. You can also travel with a trusted companion. Having a trusted companion take over driving duties allows each driver to rest, reducing the chances of fatigue-related incidents.

3. Adhere to Speed Limits and Avoid Distractions

Speeding is a leading cause of road accidents. Adhering to speed limits ensures that you have ample time to react to road conditions and the actions of other drivers, which is especially important. 

During the holidays, traffic enforcement increases on many routes. Sticking to the speed limit can help avoid costly tickets and points on your driver's license. You should also keep your phone away, set your playlist or podcast beforehand, and focus on the road.

4. Travel During Daylight Hours

Daylight provides the best visibility, allowing you to see the road, other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential hazards clearly. This is especially important in winter when adverse weather can further impair visibility.

If possible, plan your travel during daylight hours. Daylight driving is safer, and there is a reduced likelihood of encountering drunk drivers, who are more common during night hours in the festive season.

5. Fuel Up

Start your trip with a full tank, and plan your refueling stops ahead of time to avoid running low on gas, especially in unfamiliar areas where gas stations may be sparse.

6. Get in the Christmas Spirit

A festive atmosphere can make the journey enjoyable. Play classic Christmas music, and wear a festive accessory like a Santa hat (as long as it doesn't impede your driving). A happy vibe helps keep the journey merry and light.

7. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Pack an emergency kit that includes items like blankets, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, extra snacks and water, and a portable phone charger. Being prepared will help you manage if you encounter unexpected delays or breakdowns.

8. Pack Your Car Well

 Before you start packing, empty your car of any unnecessary items and give it a quick clean. This will maximize space and help you organize more effectively.

Place heavier suitcases and boxes in the trunk first and position them against the back of the rear seats. This stabilizes your load and helps balance the car, crucial for maintaining control while driving. Ensure the weight is evenly distributed on both sides of the vehicle to prevent any imbalance affecting driving dynamics.

Use the space under the passenger seats for smaller items like shoes, books, or snack packs. The side door pockets can hold items you need to access quickly, like water bottles, snacks, or maps

9. Check the Weather Forecast

Winter weather can be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast for your route and destination before your departure. Consider altering your travel plans to avoid dangerous conditions if severe weather is predicted.

10. Use Your Map and Plan Your Route

GPS is an excellent tool for finding the fastest route home. Set your destination before you depart and use a mount for easy viewing. If traveling through areas with poor signal, consider downloading offline maps or carrying a physical map as a backup.

Bonus

As you prepare for your journey home, ensure your vehicle is properly insured. Adequate insurance coverage is not just a legal requirement—it's a crucial safety net that protects you financially in case of accidents, theft, or unexpected damages during your travels. 

Before you hit the road, take a moment to review your policy. Ensure it's up-to-date and provides comprehensive coverage suitable for long-distance travel. This includes collision coverage, liability coverage, and possibly additional protection against uninsured motorists. Ensuring you are fully covered provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying the festive season with your loved ones. Don't have car insurance?  Get a quote here.

Remember, it's not just about the destination but also enjoying the journey. Merry Christmas and safe travels.