If you are planning one last road trip with your friends and family this Labor Day weekend, keep these safety tips in mind to avoid accidents and other hazards while on the open road.

• Tire maintenance: Before your journey begins, you should inspect the pressure of your tires as well as their threading. If you haven’t had a tire rotation in a while, it might be a smart idea to get that service now as well. With properly maintained and pressurized tires, not only will you improve your vehicle’s handling but having more control over your car will help decrease the chance of an accident. Tire pressure is a large contributor to fuel efficiency, so you will also save money when your tires are properly maintained.

• Slick roadways: With so many people taking road trips, streets and highways are sure to be coated in dirt, oil, and other runoff. Rain can bring all that trapped, slippery grime to the surface and make spinouts and brake failures more likely. Remember to slow down and drive slower than the speed limit in the rain.

• Plan Ahead: Know the route you are going to take on your trip before you head out, and how long it should take you to reach particular destinations. Before you leave, let a friend or family member know where you are heading and check in with them when you arrive.

• Roadway etiquette: Sharing the road and choosing to drive defensively is always a smart choice but becomes particularly important during holiday trips. With increased numbers of drivers on the road, it is important to follow the speed limit, stay focused on the task of driving, limit distractions and don’t follow the car in front of you too closely.

Despite remembering all of these road trip safety tips, you may be involved in an accident because of someone else’s negligence. If you or a family member have been injured in an accident, contact The Womac Law Firm at 504-486-9999. Our New Orleans auto accident attorneys can discuss your claim during a free consultation.