A successful move is a safe move. Arrive on time and minimize roadside mishaps by following our comprehensive guide:

• Tips for before you leave
• Information to keep in your vehicle at all times
• Last minute auto check
• Tools and Gadgets for the road
• In case of a traffic mishap

Tips for before you leave:

• Join a road assistance service such as AAA.
• Tuck valuables (camera, wallet, car phone, etc.) under car seats or in the trunk when making rest stops.
• Keep your owner's manual in the car in case you need a replacement part while in route.
• Store copies of your registration, driver's license, and proof of automobile insurance in your glove compartment for easy access in emergencies
• Get a travel map or guidebook from Rand McNally to get clear, accurate directions to your final destination.

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Information about your car:

• Year/make/model
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Battery group number
• Oil viscosity grade
• Tire size

• Spouse/parent
• Friend
• Insurance agent
• Physician
• Attorney
• Car manufacturer customer service
• Towing/roadside assistance contact

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Last minute auto checks:

Check auto fluid levels (consult your owner's manual for recommended fluid levels):

• Freon
• Antifreeze/coolant
• Oil
• Water
• Break fluid
• Transmission fluid
• Radiator
• Battery

• Test and replace old or weak car batteries

• When making a long trip, a higher octane fuel may give you better performance and cause less stress on your engine

• Inspect and replace worn or cracked belts and replace brittle hoses.

• Survey your tires, including your spare, for ample tread and proper inflation. (Consult your owner's manual for proper tire pressure).

• Keep flares, road hazard signals and a first aid kit in your vehicle

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Tools and Gadgets for the Road:

When traveling always is prepared incase of emergency or equipment failure. The following items will help you have a safe journey:

• Cellular phone – fully charged with spare batteries for longer trips
• First-aid kit –
• Flashlight – bring extra batteries
• Pen and pad – verify that pen works
• Disposable flash camera – bring extra film
• Reflective triangles or flares – check to see they work
• Emergency money- remember small bills and change for taxis, tips, and phone calls
• Water
• Thermal blanket
• Booster cables
• Tow rope with lockable ends – verify tension is appropriate
• Fire extinguisher rated 1A; 10B,C – confirm it's been recently inspected
• Work gloves
• Rain poncho
• Aerosol tire inflator and sealer –
• Puncture repair kit – specific to your tire size
• Basic tool kit –Hammer, pliers, adjustable wrench, screwdriver set, electrical tape, duct tape, knife, and miscellaneous spare parts like belts and hoses.

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In case of a traffic mishap:

• Use triangles or flares to block traffic by placing them around your vehicle
• Alert the nearest law enforcement agency
• Minimize conflict with involved parties
• Have your insurance card and license handy
• Record the license plate, year, make, model, and color of any involved vehicles
• Record the name, address, phone number, registration and insurance information of anyone involved, as well as any witnesses present.
• Record the investigating officer's name, badge number, and department
• Sketch out a diagram of the accident scene, showing streets, cars involved and location of debris
• Notify your family
• Notify your insurance agent
• In the event of injury, seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.

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