As families throughout the Tampa Bay area pack up and plan to head to destinations both near and far for Christmas this weekend, we wonder if you’re prepared ahead of time for the trip, aside from filling the car with gas and stocking your suitcases. While driving to your intended destination is pretty simple thanks to GPS systems, actually enduring a lengthy road trip, especially if you have small children, can be a long, difficult test of endurance.
So, how can you prepare ahead for your travels this Christmas?
First, think about when you’ll be driving. If doing most of your driving early in the day, it might be a good idea to pack up some entertainment (small toys, movies on a tablet, books, etc.) for children (or even for fidgety adult passengers!). Since daytime driving doesn’t lend itself to naps very often, having things to keep your passengers of all ages quiet and content will make a drive more pleasant for everyone. If you are driving at night, there are some additional ways you can be prepared. Be sure you get plenty of sleep the day prior, so you’re well rested for the journey. For little passengers, pajamas or comfy lounge attire might be your best choice, and throwing a favorite blanket or stuffed animal into the vehicle with them could be a great way to encourage sleep while you drive. Crying kids don’t just give everyone else in the vehicle a headache, but can also be very distracting to a driver, so do your best to keep a quiet environment during your trip.
Also, plan out your stops prior to actually leaving on the trip. While there will probably be a handful of unplanned bathroom breaks required, know where rest stops are located along your route, and mark them on your map, or on your phone’s GPS if possible. Also research exits that might offer a variety of food choices and places to fill up with gas. Note these for meal times or for extended breaks. By planning out this type of loose “schedule” you’ll feel more in control of your trip instead of being left to the mercy of what pops up at the next exit when everyone is hungry, tired, and ready to get out of the car.
Finally, prepare for the unexpected. Stock your car with a flashlight, extra batteries, bottled water, some non-perishable snacks, and a blanket or two. A first aid kit is also a much-needed addition. It’s a good idea to have your car checked over before hitting the road, and make sure your spare tire is in good shape and ready if the need arises. If a flat tire, breakdown, or accident does happen to you, it will still be problematic, but at least by preparing ahead of time you’ll have basic necessities covered until you can get help. Also be mindful of keeping doors and windows locked when you make stops, and be aware of your surroundings at all time since Christmas is a popular time for carjacking and theft due to all the Christmas shopping funds and gifts being stored in traveling vehicles. Never leave cash or expensive items in plain view in an unoccupied car (cover them or place them in your trunk).
When the unexpected does happen, Sessums Law Group is ready to STAND FOR YOU and help you deal with the aftermath. If you are in an accident and are failing to receive the compensation you might deserve as a result, we will assist you in navigating the confusing waters of case details, going to court, and fighting for yourself and your family. We are proud to stand for clients throughout the Tampa area and offer the very best in legal representation no matter the need.
Have a Merry (and safe) Christmas, and happy travels from your trusted Tampa lawyers at Sessums Law Group!