Valentine’s Day is a day for romance – but love is about more than chocolate, jewelry and roses. It’s also about caring for people and worrying about their wellbeing. Because driving is one of the most dangerous things we do every day, there’s no better way to show someone you care than to help them stay safe on the road.
Here are seven car-centric ways to show you care.
- Check the tires. Underinflated and worn tires create a serious hazard. According to the NHTSA, 11,000 tire-related crashes occur every year. Check the tire pressure and add air if needed. Watch for wear on the tires. You definitely need to replace them if the tread is 2/32 of an inch deep; some experts recommend replacing tires earlier, when the tread is 4/32 of an inch.
- Put an emergency kit in the car. A good emergency kit should include a first aid kit, a flashlight, road flares and water food. Read this for more tips on what to keep in your car so you’re prepared for anything.
- Have a spare tire on hand. Even well-maintained tires can get damaged. Having a spare tire ready makes the prospect of a flat tire a lot less stressful. Of course, it won’t do much good without the tools and knowledge needed to change a tire, so make sure your loved one has that, too.
- Give the road your full attention. According to the CDC, distracted driving kills nine people every day. Keep your loved ones safe when you’re driving – put down your phone and focus on the road.
- Don’t be the distraction. Does your partner always reply immediately to your texts? If this happens while driving, that quick reply could result in a deadly accident. Make it clear that you care more about safety than getting an immediate response.
- Drive sober. According to the NHTSA, drunk driving is responsible for 29 deaths every day. Although drinking and driving often increases around holidays, no holiday is an excuse for drunk driving, and that includes Valentine’s Day. Don’t drive drunk, and don’t let your loved ones drive drunk, either.
- Get enough car insurance. Car insurance isn’t very romantic, but neither is facing financial problems after an accident. Each state sets minimum requirements for liability insurance, but you may want to go higher. Also consider optional policies – such as uninsured motorist coverage and comprehensive insurance – to make sure you and your loved ones are protected against all possibilities. Read this for more details on coverage types.
Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day from all of us at Pini Insurance!