With holiday travel season underway, AAA Central Penn is urging drivers to plan ahead to help avoid roadside emergencies.
PENNSYLVANIA, USA — With holiday travel season underway, AAA Central Penn is urging drivers to plan ahead to help avoid roadside emergencies, especially as winter weather and heavier traffic make travel riskier.
“AAA is here to help remind your drivers to feel more prepared and maybe eliminate some headaches on the roadway this season,” said Doni Lee Spiegel, public relations manager for AAA Central Penn.
AAA Central Penn offers a range of tips for those planning holiday travel — whether it’s a long drive across the state or a short trip to visit family.
Before leaving home, AAA recommends that drivers make sure their vehicle is ready for cold weather and long distances by doing the following:
Prepare your car: Along with planning your travel route and timing, check that your vehicle is ready for the trip.
Pack smart: Take along tools like an ice scraper, flashlight with extra batteries, cell phone charger, water and snacks. AAA says these items are especially important when traveling with children, older relatives or pets.
AAA encourages anyone in need to call for assistance. Even if you aren’t a member, AAA representatives can connect you with help or assist you in joining so you’re covered in the future.
AAA Central Penn also offered practical safety reminders for the winter travel season:
- Check headlights, brake lights, turn signals and interior lights to make sure they’re working.
- Be ready for winter weather conditions with warm clothing, blankets and an emergency kit.
- Slow down, leave extra following distance and drive sober.
“December is a very dangerous time to be on the road because of all the extra traffic and the extra stress [and] people behind the wheel,” Spiegel said. “Our AAA agents are heroes. We may not wear capes, and we might not be the cleanest people when we’re out there working on the side of the roads, but all of our guys every day, they’re heroes. They’re coming to the rescue, whether your car doesn’t start or you’re in an accident. We’re there to help.”
AAA Central Penn urges drivers to give themselves extra time for travel, avoid peak return times in the afternoon and stay alert behind the wheel. With increased travel volume over Christmas and New Year’s, preparation is key to arriving safely.
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