AAA Safe Memorial Weekend Tips

Be Safe During Memorial Day Weekend

RISMEDIA, May 25, 2010--Memorial Day serves as the start for the busy summer driving season and AAA estimates that over 27 million motorists travel for the holiday annually. So as motorists prepare for holiday travel this weekend, a team of professional drivers are helping to make our roads safer.

America's Road Team Captains, elite professional truck drivers with millions of accident-free miles, are offering advice on how to navigate through highway traffic and arrive at your destination safely. Tips include:

-- Perform a pre-trip inspection - Check your tire pressure, wipers and fluids. Simple maintenance can prevent many of the problems that strand motorists on the side of the road before you leave your home.
-- Pay Attention - Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes. Looking away for even two seconds doubles the chances of an accident.
-- Allow a Safety Cushion - Look 1/4 mile ahead for a safe path. Leave yourself an out.
-- Slow Down - Chances of a crash nearly triples when driving faster than surrounding traffic.
-- Keep extra water in your vehicle - Just as you keep a winter driving kit in your vehicle, it is important to be prepared when driving during the summer months. Keep plenty of extra water, sunscreen and
non-perishable snacks in car in case you are stranded.
-- Large Trucks Have Blindspots - If you can't see the truck driver in his or her mirrors, then the truck driver can't see you.
-- Buckle Up - Safety belts are not a fashion statement - they save lives.
-- Abide by Traffic Rules - Follow traffic signs and signals - paying special attention to work zones.
-- Be Careful Backing Up - One in four preventable collisions involve backing up. Be sure to look before backing up; walk around your car prior to departure.
-- Do not cut in front of large trucks - Remember that trucks are heavier and take longer to make a complete stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of them.