CHARLOTTE, NC – With Labor Day weekend marking the unofficial end of summer, families and friends across the country are gearing up for road trips to celebrate the holiday. While the long weekend promises adventure, preparation and safety remain essential to ensuring travelers reach their destinations without incident.
Last Labor Day holiday weekend, AAA responded to more than 383,000 calls from stranded motorists, highlighting the importance of proactive vehicle maintenance and road safety practices. AAA urges drivers to plan their trips carefully and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of car trouble and accidents over the holiday period.
“Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and our roadside assistance teams are fully prepared to help those in need,” said Tiffany Wright, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “However, taking preventative steps before hitting the road can often mean the difference between an enjoyable trip and an unwanted interruption. A simple vehicle inspection can save time, money, and stress while keeping everyone safer.”
Essential Vehicle Maintenance Tips
Before heading out, AAA recommends drivers check the following components to ensure their vehicles are road-ready for the holiday weekend:
- Tires: Inspect tread depth and proper inflation, including the spare tire.
- Battery: Test for signs of wear, such as slow engine starts or dim lights, and replace if needed.
- Brakes: Listen for grinding noises or vibrations, which may signal a need for service.
- Wiper Blades: Replace if they streak or fail to clear the windshield effectively.
- Fluids: Check and top off oil, coolant, and brake fluids as recommended in the owner’s manual.
Drivers are also encouraged to restock their emergency kits with critical supplies such as first-aid items, a flashlight, water, jumper cables, and a basic toolkit.
Safe Driving Reminders
Road safety remains a top priority during holiday travel. AAA reminds drivers of key practices to reduce risks and protect all road users:
- Watch Your Speed: Excessive speed is a factor in nearly one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities. Maintain a safe and steady pace.
- Avoid Distractions: Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes. Focus solely on the road—put away phones and other distractions.
- Don’t Drive Impaired: Alcohol and drugs severely impact judgment and reaction time. Arrange for a designated driver or use a rideshare service.
- Rest and Stay Alert: Fatigued driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Take regular breaks to stay refreshed.
- Buckle Up: Seatbelts reduce the risk of severe injury or death. Fasten your seatbelt for every trip, regardless of distance.
What to Do If You Experience Car Trouble
Despite careful preparation, unexpected breakdowns can still occur. Drivers should follow these steps for safety if car trouble arises during their trip:
- Pull over to the nearest exit or shoulder, ensuring you’re as far away from passing traffic as possible.
- Turn on hazard lights to signal distress.
- Stay with your vehicle if it is safe to do so. If you must exit, carefully move to a secure area away from traffic.
- Call for assistance. Use your phone, AAA Mobile App, or AAA’s emergency hotline for help.
Move Over for Me
AAA also reminds drivers to respect Move Over laws, which require motorists to slow down or change lanes when approaching emergency responders, tow trucks, or stranded vehicles. Roadside crashes remain a significant risk, claiming nearly 350 lives annually.
“As we prepare to assist thousands of travelers this Labor Day weekend, we remind motorists to prioritize safety—for themselves and others,” added Wright. “Moving over or slowing down for vehicles on the shoulder can make a life-saving difference.”
