Now that summer has arrived, you and your friends or family may be planning a road trip. Whether it's a tour of the Badlands and Mount Rushmore or an educational trip to Washington, D.C., you need to stay safe, review your auto insurance policy, and take several other steps to protect yourself and your vehicle. Below are some important tips to stay safe.

How to Stay Safe on Your Road Trip

1. Inspect the Vehicle

The last thing you want during your trip is to have car problems while you're on the highway. To prevent any engine trouble, check the lights, GPS—if applicable—and other electrical equipment. Replace the wiper blades if they leave streaks and fill up the wiper fluid. Most mechanics offer pre-trip inspections to make sure the car is safe for a long trip. They'll inspect the engine, brakes, tires, suspension, and fluid levels.

2. Review Your Auto Insurance

Many people only maintain the state's legally mandated minimum levels of auto insurance coverage. However, since a road trip is often an intense driving experience into unfamiliar areas, you may want better protection. Consider boosting your policy to include collision coverage, which pays to repair damage to your car when you are at fault. 

Also consider comprehensive coverage, which pays for non-collision losses like vandalism, theft, or fire due to overheating. Finally, because you'll be away from your hometown, look into roadside assistance coverage. This covers tow truck service if you run into trouble, such as a tow to safety, fuel delivery, a jump-start, and lock-out service.

3. Assemble an Emergency Kit

If, despite your preparation, something unfortunate should happen, you want to have an emergency kit handy. Valuable items to pack include the following:

• Flashlight
• Jumper cables
• Road flares
• First-aid kit
• Phone charger
• Candles and matches
• Non-perishable food items, such as granola bars
• Bottled water

If you need good auto insurance before your summer road trip, contact Accredited Insurance Group Inc. in Omaha, NE. They are family-owned and -operated and have served Douglas County residents for more than 30 years. They specialize in auto, motorcycle, SR-22, renters, and home insurance. They are well-known for their friendly, attentive service, competitive prices, and industry expertise. Learn more about them on their website or call (402) 334-1780 to request an auto insurance quote.