Press Release
AAA Announces Holiday Travel Tips
11/27/96
Buckle Up! Kids In The Back! AAA Offers Tips For Holiday Travel ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 25 -- One of the most important safety tip for those traveling by automobile over the Thanksgiving holiday is to be sure everyone is buckled up and seated in the proper position, according to AAA. "While no one likes to think about a holiday trip being interrupted by an automobile crash, it is vital that motorists take steps to make the most out of their car's air bags and other safety equipment," said Mark Edwards, managing director of AAA's Traffic Safety Department. Every occupant should be properly restrained by lap and shoulder belts or an appropriate child safety seat, AAA advises. In vehicles with air bags, drivers should sit at least 12 inches away from the steering wheel while maintaining a comfortable position that allows proper control of the vehicle. Front-seat passengers also should sit as far back from the dashboard as possible. Passengers 12-years and younger should always travel in back seats and be properly secured in a child safety seat or with lap and shoulder belts whether the car has air bags or not. AAA also offers the following additional advice for safe and enjoyable travel this holiday: AUTO TRAVEL
- Check your vehicle's fluid levels and make sure the tires, including the spare, are in good condition and inflated properly.
- Plan your route in advance. Keep a map handy.
- Carry emergency items in your car including a flashlight with fresh batteries, blankets, jumper cables and a flare or reflective triangle.
- If driving to a cold-weather destination, travel with an abrasive material such as sand or non-clumping cat litter, an ice scraper and a small shovel.
- Consider traveling with a cellular phone for emergencies.
- Stop every few hours to "re-energize" -- especially if traveling with children.
- If you become sleepy while driving, find a safe place to park for a short nap. Caffeine-containing beverages may improve alertness, but only for a short time.
- Drive with your headlights on during the day to make you more visible to others.
- Travel with a photo identification at all times. Have it handy in case you're asked.
- Reconfirm your flight directly with the airline 24 to 48 hours prior to departure.
- Use public transportation or arrange to have someone drive you to the airport to avoid holiday traffic and parking delays.
- If you must drive, consider off-airport, park-and-ride arrangements.
- Plan to arrive at the airport at least an hour-and-a-half prior to departure for domestic flights; at least two hours ahead for international flights.
- Keep your carry-on baggage to a minimum. Most airlines allow two carry-on bags, but heavy passenger volume during the holidays may limit overhead bin and underseat storage capacity.
