Planning a Road Trip?
Follow the steps below to help make your road trip safe and fun:
- In advance of your trip, order a state transportation or scenic byways map.
- Before leaving your house, check road conditions, travel advisories, construction projects, the HOV schedule and run through the travel check list below.
While traveling, keep these pointers in mind.
Travel Checklist
Check Your Vehicle
- Top off all fluids in your vehicle and check the tire pressure, especially when heading north to colder climates.
- Make certain you safely secure items placed in a roof rack.
- Even properly maintained vehicles break down. Equip your vehicle with an emergency kit.
- Have your radiator, air conditioning system, tires, belts, hoses and steering checked by a professional before hot weather arrives.
Plan for Emergencies
Keep at least one gallon of drinkable water in the trunk of your vehicle.
For the Family
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Keep reading and writing materials available for children who may become bored in traffic tie-ups.
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The elderly and people with health conditions affected by prolonged exposure to heat may want to consider acquiring a cellular telephone.
Stay Alert
Because driver fatigue is a major cause of accidents, get plenty of rest the night before. To combat driver fatigue on the road, stop at a safety rest area for a 15-minute break every two to three hours.
Tune Your Radio
Listen to Advisory Radio for the latest traffic update:
Hampton Roads AM - 1680
Tune to radio AM 1680 for tunnel information within a five- to seven-mile-radius of the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel and the Downtown Tunnel in Norfolk.
Side-tracked?
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If stopped for an extended period, turn off your car engine to avoid over-heating.
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Do not assume that you can make it to your destination when car troubles arise. Have your car checked out immediately.
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If having trouble with your vehicle when en route, move to a lane that offers safe, easy access to an emergency lane or pull off the road. Stay there until assistance arrives.