Holiday Hazard - Driving out of town

DRIVING IN UNFAMILIAR AREAS FOR THE HOLIDAYS? DRIVE SAFELY!

Are you visiting family out of town for the Holidays?  Most likely, you want to avoid this Griswald family-like crash. Driving in unfamiliar areas can be hazardous. You may not know the streets or the terrain or how to drive in weather that is uncommon for your area. 
  * Make sure you limit the distractions. It is just plain stupid to text and drive. It is even more so if you are driving on unfamiliar roads. Many of us have made those drives with kids fighting in the back seat and people arguing over what is on the radio. But it is so important to stay alert and engaged while driving, especially in new places.
   * Know the traffic laws. Do your research before you leave. Some towns have roundabouts, bizarre junctions and different road signs that you are not used to. Know the speed limits as well.

   * Get to know your environment. Will there be icy bridges? Cattle in the streets? (Yes that can be a thing) Depending on where you go, the environment, including the weather, will dictate how you drive. Take it slower if you are at all unsure of your surroundings. 
   * Do you need to winterize your car? Or protect it from heat? Google how to do that properly in the state you are going to. Winterizing in Texas can be different than winterizing in Wyoming.
   * Have a map, in case your phone's map app doesn't work. If you haven't spent time in the mountains before, I can tell you - cell reception can be dicey.  

If you get lost, always remember to:
Pay attention to road signs. They can help guide you.  Avoid sudden changes in direction and illegal manuevers, such as a u-turn on an unfamiliar road. Use your turn signals/hazards. This will let other drivers know your intentions. Reduce your speed. This will give you more time to identify and respond to unexpected obstacles like fallen debris, potholes and curves in the road. 

Make sure to add a extra time to your driving plans.  There is nothing more frustrating than getting lost when you are already late! That anxiety just adds to the hazard of driving in unfamiliar areas!
   
Take your auto insurance with you. Even if you are driving a Rental. If you buy the Rental company's insurance, it will cover any mishap you may have. But that rental insurance can be costly. Your own personal insurance will cover your rental should anything happen, but it will count on your accident history. It is up if you want to buy the Rental insurance or use your own. 

It can be great to get out of town, but drive safely so it doesn't turn disasterous!

There are three ways to request a quote for your insurance needs: 

* Visit our website

* Email us

* Call Brockman Premier Insurance at 877-987-8683