Get ready for your next road trip in Florida! Learn about the different strategies and tips you can use for staying safe out on the open road.
Welcome to Florida, the Sunshine State! With its picturesque beaches, vibrant cities, and fascinating wildlife, Florida is a popular destination for road trips. While you plan your adventure, it’s important to prioritize safety to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate checklist to keep you and your family safe on your next Florida road trip. From pre-trip planning to what to do in case of an accident, we’ve got you covered so you can hit the road in confidence.
Pre-trip Planning
There are a few things that need to get done before you embark on your Florida road trip. By following the steps below, you will be prepared for any circumstances and save yourself from all the hassles that come with them.
Check Your Car
Begin by checking your tires. Make sure the tire pressure meets the correct parameters of your vehicle and inspect the overall conditions of your tires and the tread depth. You can use the “penny method” to test your tread depth. Use a penny with Lincoln’s head pointing down into the tire tread. If you can’t see the top of his head, you’re in the clear. If you can, it may be time to replace your tire.
Verify that all of your lights work. Use a buddy to walk through a light check. Start with your front turn signals, your headlights, low beams, and high beams. Then move to the back and check your brake lights and turn signals.
Inspect your windshield wipers and ensure they work fine. Make sure the rubber of the blades is not worn down and you have also topped off your windshield fluid. It’s also important to check your fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid, and top them off if needed.
If you notice any problems or issues during your inspection, address them promptly to avoid any breakdowns or other issues on the road.
Ensure You Have All the Necessities
Make sure that your vehicle is up to date on all its registration and insurance. If your road trip in Florida exceeds 90 days, Shapiro | Delgado note that you must carry PIP insurance. Be sure to place all necessary documents in your glove box. It may take some time for information to process if any of your registrations or insurance is out of date, that’s why it’s important to complete this early.
An emergency kit on your road trip is a must. It should include a first aid kit and roadside assistance tools, such as a flashlight, jumper cables, flares, and a tire changing kit. Other items to consider packing include water, snacks, a map or GPS device, and a cell phone charger.
By ensuring you have all the necessary items, you can mitigate any potential problems on the road and enjoy your Florida road trip with peace of mind.
Have a Plan
Florida has so many unique highways and byways that take you along gorgeous coastlines. So where are you going to go? Having a plan is essential when it comes to taking a road trip to Florida. Take the time to plan your route and check traffic updates to avoid congested areas. Consider using a GPS device or go old school and use a map to navigate your way around unfamiliar areas.
Additionally, make sure to plan your stops along the way. There are many charming coastal towns, beaches, and National Parks you can stop at to eat and take a rest break. Always have a plan B. You never know when unexpected issues or delays may arise so it’s also important to have a backup plan just in case. By taking the time to plan ahead, you can make the most of your Florida road trip and avoid any unnecessary stress or setbacks.
Obey Traffic Laws
The law is there for your safety and the safety of others. If you’re new to the state of Florida, take the time to familiarize yourself with Florida’s traffic rules and regulations as they may be slightly different than your home state. Ignorance or misconceptions of the law is not a defense, so it’s crucial to take the time to understand the rules of the road in Florida to avoid any legal or financial issues.
During the Trip
Now that you’ve finally made it on your Florida road trip, there are a few safety tips you should follow.
Keep a safe distance
When you’re on the road you should maintain a distance of at least 3 seconds between you and the car in front of you. This way, you have enough time to react to any unexpected situations such as braking, swerving, or objects on the road. The more time you have to react, the better your chances of avoiding an accident.
Florida, being the tropical paradise it is, can have sudden spurts of heavy rain. In moments like these, it’s especially important to distance yourself from other vehicles and travel at slower speeds
Stay Alert
Staying alert and focused is essential for safe driving during your Florida road trip. This means avoiding distracted driving – any activity that takes your attention off of the road. This includes
using your cell phone, eating, fiddling with the entertainment station or GPS, and talking to others in the car. Remember, it only takes a split second of inattention to cause an accident so if you need to use your phone or eat, make sure to pull over to a safe location first. You can use this time to explore more cities and excursions that Florida has to offer.
What to do in Case of an Accident
Despite taking all the necessary precautions, accidents can still happen. In 2021, there were 401,540 crashes statewide. Understanding where and why accidents occur molds you into a safe driver that makes informed decisions.
If you find yourself in a car accident during your Florida road trip, the first thing to do is to check your loved ones for injuries and contact emergency services if necessary. Then exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident. It’s crucial to take pictures of the accident scene, damages, and injuries, as they may be helpful later when dealing with insurance companies or legal proceedings.
By following this guide, you can now enjoy all of what the Sunshine State has to offer with peace of mind that you and your family are prepared and protected.
