Precautions Range from Checking Tire Pressure to Packing an Emergency Kit

, -- According to a recent survey from GasBuddy, 69% of Americans plan to take a road trip this summer, and of those, 40% say they expect to be on the road for more than five hours. If you're among the millions with travel plans, Mercury Insurance wants to help ensure that your vehicle is up for the task.

"Road tripping has long been a summer tradition for many families, but it's important to take a few precautions before heading out," said Kevin Quinn, Vice President of Auto Claims for Mercury Insurance. "Ensure that your vehicle is up to date on maintenance, and that all lights and signals are functional. Additionally, check that your tire pressure and tread wear are acceptable, and pack an emergency kit that includes essentials like jumper cables and basic tools to handle unexpected roadside issues." 

Here's a breakdown of recommendations from Mercury to prepare for a road trip:

"It's better to find a problem in your driveway than on the side of the road," said Quinn. "By taking these precautions, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of unexpected incidents and help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey."

For more road tripping prep tips, visit Mercury's blog.