America’s vast area and transcontinental highway system make it conducive to long car journeys. However, to keep yourself and your passengers safe and to keep your car insurance rates low, it's important to practice caution along the way. Below are some of the most important tips for a safe road trip.

5 Tips for a Safer Road Trip

1. Wear Seat Belts

Even if it becomes uncomfortable to wear seat belts after being in a car for several hours, stay buckled up for safety. More than half of all highway fatalities of teens and adults aged 20 to 44 in 2016 occurred to motorists who were not wearing seat belts.

2. Check Tire Pressure

Inflate your tires to the recommended pounds per square inch. You'll find this number on the driver's door jamb or in the owner's manual. Improper inflation increases the chances of a blowout, leads to improper tread wear, decreases the tire’s life span, and may interfere with fuel economy.

3. Fill Windshield Wiper Fluid Reservoir

The ability to see the road is crucial to highway safety, so keep your fluid reservoir filled. While you may need to use a squeegee at a gas station for stubborn dirt, a quick swipe of your windshield wipers after dispensing the liquid can remove a lot of surface dirt, bugs, and mud. This can improve visibility significantly. Additionally, check the wiper blades for cracks, chips, or imperfections to see if they should be replaced.

4. Bring a GPS

A global positioning satellite system (GPS) or smartphone maps app can be invaluable when you need to find a gas station, a motel room, or a place to eat. It also keeps you on track and prevents you from taking a wrong turn or missing an exit.

5. Update Your Car Insurance

If you don't currently have full coverage, you can update your policy to provide greater protection during the road trip. Even if you do, you can call your car insurance agent and ask them to raise your limits, lower your deductible, or add roadside assistance to your policy for more comprehensive coverage.

To design a car insurance policy that meets your needs and fits your budget, contact Hummel Insurance Services in Oakland, IA. They have served businesses and individuals throughout Pottawattamie County for more than 75 years, and they specialize in auto, farm, health, life, and homeowners insurance. Visit their website to view location details, and call (712) 482-6424 to request a car insurance quote.