Whether it is a weekend getaway to the beach or family vacation on the other side of the country, safety should be your number one priority while traveling. From auto accidents to emergency repairs, here is a look at four ways to keep your family as safe and happy as possible the next time you get behind the wheel.

1. Don’t Skimp on Auto Maintenance

Millions of accidents take place in the United States every single year, and a good percentage of these can be prevented with some basic auto maintenance. Changing the oil and checking on coolant levels will keep your car running smoothly, but you should also take some time to check on safety features such as the emergency lights, brake pads, and tread on the tires.

2. Make an Emergency Kit

Every car should have an emergency kit, but longer road trips will require a slightly larger kit that will accommodate the entire family. At the very least, the emergency kit should have some long-lasting food, water, a first-aid pack, and basic tools to fix issues such as a flat tire or dead battery. It is also a good idea to keep a few old cell phones with a full charge in the trunk of the car. Even cell phones with no service plans can call 911 for free.

3. Don’t Hesitate to Get Professional Help

When serious issues do take place it is important to seek out professional help as quickly as possible. Small problems such as a sprained ankle or an auto accident become exponentially more complex when you are away from home. If you are involved in a car accident, immediately seeking out medical help and contacting Ladah Law Firm or a local attorney could make all the difference when it comes to protecting your family’s health and finances.

4. Create Backup Plans

It is a good idea to have a backup plan for any common problems that you may experience while on the road. If a smartphone dies or you lose service, then you will want a map somewhere in the car so that you can keep on traveling until you get service again. The same precautions can be made for things like the hotels where you will be staying at or even the credit cards you have. Having a backup motel in mind and some emergency cash could be a lifesaver while out on the road.

Most families are going to enjoy a fun and safe road trip, but it never hurts to put safety first. Keeping these few tips in mind will limit your risk of issues such as roadside breakdowns, getting lost, or even complicated legal battles.