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During the summer vacation season, millions of Americans take to the roads to enjoy time off with family and friends.  Part of the preparation for these trips involves being sure vehicles are  in top running order; that all the fluids are topped off; the tires are in good shape, and there are no hidden problems which could cause breakdowns or vehicle accidents, both of which could  not only ruin well-deserved vacations, but have lasting, devastating effects.

Drivers never know when emergencies may happen while on the road.  Unforeseen events may require special equipment or supplies which may not be readily available. What if the vehicle does break down; what if the engine stalls; what if the vehicle experiences a blown tire? 

"When planning vacations, or any road trips, drivers need to prepare for the unexpected," says Fort Myers Accident Attorney, Randall Spivey of Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. "Taking the time to be sure vehicles are not only road-worthy, but also that they have equipment to handle emergencies is important.  We would like to share some recommendations   on what motorists should consider having in their vehicles at all times, along with roadside assistance programs. Let's make our road trips this summer, and throughout the year, safe and enjoyable."

A basic first aid kit is the first thing to consider, according to ConsumerReports.org.  In addition, drivers should have:

• Cell phone and car charger
• Fire extinguisher (multipurpose, dry-chemical compact unit labeled 1A:10B:C or 2A:10B:c)
• Warning light, hazard triangles, or flares
• Jack and lung wrench (if your vehicle lacks run-flat tires)
• Nonflammable foam tire sealant (for minor punctures; not a permanent fix)
• Spare fuses (check owner's manual for correct type and how to replace)
• Bright, weatherproof flashlight
• Gloves, hand cleaner, clean rags
• Auto-club card or roadside-assistance number
• Jumper cables or a portable battery booster (eliminates the need for a second vehicle)
• Pen and paper (to leave a note on a windshield or jot down accident info)
• Escape device (for example, Resqme, a key chain with a blade to slice seatbelts and a spike to shatter windows)

Having these items available may be important; however, checking them periodically to be sure they are in good working order is even more important.  Also, knowing how to use them in an emergency will save time.

The state of Florida, Department of Transportation, provides free road service on Florida's highways called the Road Ranger Program. Since its inception in 2000, the Road Ranger Service Patrol has made 4.3 million service assists.  In 2013, there were 374,971 assists.  For Road Ranger assistance dial *347 (FHP). "The Road Rangers are roving vehicles that patrol congested areas and high incident locations of the urban freeway and are equipped, at a minimum, with the following equipment to assist as needed:

• 2 Ton Jacks
• 5 Gallons of Sand
• Air Compressor
• Auto Fluids
• Booster Cables
• Cell Phones
• Fire Extinguishers
• First Aid Kits
• Flares
• Flashing Arrow Board
• Public Address System
• Radiator Water
• Reflective Cones
• Wood Blocks
• Basic repair tools"

Not all emergencies happen on Florida's most-travelled roadways where the Road Ranger Service Patrol exists. Motorists may need emergency services elsewhere, from other services.   These services not only include automobile associations, such as AAA (American Automobile Association), automobile dealers also offer plans for motor vehicles they sell. 

Fort Myers Accident Attorney, Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by just one (1%) percent of Florida attorneys.  He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida.  For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at 239.337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839,or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com for more information.  You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County 239.793.7748.