Your family has packed its bags, your gear is in the trunk and you’ve filled a cooler with all the best snacks.
But preparing for a family road trip is more than just what you bring with you. Keep these five family road trip safety tips in mind the next time you’re planning a family trip, so you can be ready for any unexpected situation.
1. Schedule a tune up
Before you hit the road, you need to be sure your vehicle is safe and ready to handle the pressures of the road. Always check your car’s high-wear items, like:
- Tires (both for correct pressure and worn spots)
- Wiper blades
- Fluid levels
- Headlights and taillights
- Air conditioning
Scheduling regular oil changes and maintenance for your vehicle is also important—not only will it help prevent breakdowns, but it can offer peace of mind the next time your family is ready for a road trip adventure.
2. Prepare for a roadside emergency
A long stretch of highway can lead to the unexpected. If you experience a breakdown during your family trip, make sure you’re prepared to handle a roadside emergency.
Keep some emergency items in your car, such as:
- Cell phone charger
- Portable tire inflater
- Wheel wrench, car jack and spare tire
- Jumper cables
- Water
- List of emergency contacts
For more safety, create a car kit that contains everything you could need in case of emergency.
You should also include your insurance information in case you need to make a claim or request roadside assistance. Jennifer Nix, AVP of Auto Material Damage Claims at Grange Insurance, describes a few of the most important auto coverages for road trips:
"Comprehensive coverage protects against theft, vandalism or weather damage while your vehicle is parked. Roadside assistance offers towing for a covered disablement like a flat tire. Extended liability coverage offers higher limits for multi-state travel.”
3. Buckle up
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly half of the people killed in car accidents in 2024 weren't wearing a seat belt. Always make sure you and your passengers are buckled up properly.
It’s particularly important to use child safety seats and booster seats when needed, and that kids remain buckled in whenever the vehicle is moving. Always follow CDC guidelines about the seat types and positions that are appropriate for your children’s ages and ensure children under the age of 13 ride in the backseat.
During warmer weather, it’s also critical to remember a car can heat up quickly. Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down.
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4. Share the road
Warm weather also means different types of vehicles are out on the roads. Remember when you’re driving to watch out for motorcycles and bicycles, too. While they have the same rights to the road as you do, their smaller size makes them much more vulnerable. Remember to allow extra following distance and check your surroundings carefully before turning.
5. Don't drive distracted
Lead by example for your family—never drive distracted. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,208 lost their lives to accidents related to distracted driving in 2024 alone. Jennifer Nix cites distracted driving—including texting, phone use, and eating while driving—as some of the top contributors to auto insurance claims.
Phones aside, traveling with your family can increase the chances for distraction, so it’s important to take precautions and keep your eyes on the road. If you need to check your phone for any reason, pull over to a safe shoulder. Remind passengers not to distract the driver while the driver is operating the vehicle. Take time to learn how to break common distracted driving habits.
This also goes for driving drowsy, which can be equally dangerous. Get a good night’s sleep before a road trip, and make sure to switch driving responsibilities with another driver, if possible, or to stop and rest every few hours.
Enjoy the ride
Keep these safety tips in mind the next time you plan a family trip to help your travels run safely and smoothly.
References:
- NHTSA—Seat Belts
- CDC
- NHTSA—Distracted Driving
- AAA Exchange
The information provided is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, risk management, or insurance advice. Implementation of any suggestions does not guarantee coverage, prevent loss, or modify the terms, conditions, or exclusions of any insurance policy. Coverage is determined solely by the terms of the applicable policy.