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With one of the busiest travel weekends quickly approaching, Ft. Myers personal injury attorneys like Randall Spivey encourage all drivers and passengers to practice safe driving and remain alert of their surroundings at all times. Organizations like AAA and the National Safety Council have noted that millions of individuals will be traveling over Labor Day weekend and unfortunately, thousands of them will be involved in some sort of automobile accident that will result in injuries or even death.

Area lawmakers and safety organizations have always encouraged everyone to celebrate the holidays in a safe and responsible manner. AAA has been tracking holiday travel trends for over 20 years and throughout that time, the organization has found that almost 30 million travelers take to the roads for one last road trip before summer officially ends. That being the case, there are several things drivers and passengers can do to help keep the celebration from turning into a tragedy.

Make Sure Your Car is Ready for the Ride

Before hitting the road, AAA encourages drivers to have a car safety kit that contains basic items, such as a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit, jumper cables, a radio with extra batteries, bottled water and non-perishable food items, to name a few things. Having the kit is crucial because you never know when bad weather or an accident can occur that can result in major delays, road closures and car troubles.

Additionally, motorists should take the automobile they plan to use for traveling in for a checkup, especially if it's time for maintenance anyway. If you cannot get routine maintenance done prior to leaving, you should at least ensure the vehicle fluids are at their proper levels, the windshield wipers are in good working order and the tire pressure is appropriate for the vehicle being driven.

Prior to making any road trip, you should also keep an eye on the weather forecast for both the area from which you are leaving and the area to which you are going. Doing so will give you the opportunity to allow for extra travel time in case of bad weather.

Things to Consider While on the Road

Just about everyone who operates an automobile has heard someone say, "Buckle your seatbelt" at one point or another during their driving career. Still, as much as it has been said, there are drivers who simply refuse to heed the request. Using a seatbelt while driving and riding can help save your life in the event of a collision. It is also important to ensure that young kids in the back are in their proper safety seats (if needed) and secured in the back seats appropriately.

Those driving should also remember to heed the rules of the road. Do not tailgate others and be sure to obey all traffic devices. Law enforcement officers are typically out in greater numbers during holiday weekends, so watch your speed and of course -- DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE.

If you have questions or concerns about vehicle safety, or if you or someone you love has been injured in an automobile accident, call the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. as soon as possible for a consultation.