AAA expects to rescue nearly 800,000 drivers around July 4th holiday, urges drivers to get vehicles inspected

CHARLOTTE, NC (WWAY) — As a record-setting number of Carolinians prepare to set out for an Independence Day road trip, AAA urges drivers to make sure their vehicle is ready for the road.

According to a news release, AAA expects to rescue nearly 800,000 stranded motorists during the nine-day holiday period, from Saturday, June 29 to Sunday, July 7th. The most common problems AAA expects stranded motorists to have are dead batteries, flat tires, and lockouts.

“The hotter summer months take a toll on your vehicle’s battery and tires,” said Tiffany Wright, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group in the Carolinas. “That’s why it’s so important to get a pre-trip vehicle inspection. Doing so could uncover potential vehicle problems that might not otherwise reveal themselves until your trip.”

AAA Tips to Prevent Car Problems

• Check your tires – Inspect all four tires and the spare tire if your vehicle has one. Pay special attention to both tire inflation pressure and tread depth.
• Check your battery – The average car battery life is typically 3-5 years. If your engine is slow to start and/or your lights are dim, your battery may be nearing the end of its life. Drivers can ask for a battery check at a AAA Car Care Center or Approved Auto Repair Facility. AAA can also come to a member’s location to test and, if needed, replace the battery on site.
• Listen to and feel the brakes – If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop for a brake inspection.
• Replace wiper blades and replenish windshield cleaner – If wipers streak or fail to clear the windshield thoroughly, replace the blades. Most manufacturers recommend replacing them every 6-12 months.
• Top off engine oil and other fluids – Check that engine oil, coolant, brake, transmission, and power steering fluids are at the correct levels for safe vehicle operation. When adding fluids, use products that meet the specifications listed in the owner’s manual.
• Replenish emergency kit supplies – AAA recommends keeping a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Include a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.

AAA Tips for Drivers with Car Trouble

• Pull as far over on the shoulder as safely possible to create more distance between your vehicle and passing traffic.
• Turn your hazard lights on so other drivers are aware you are there.
• Call for assistance via phone, website or the AAA Mobile app.
• Remain with your vehicle as long as it’s safe to do so.
• If getting out of your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit, and remain alert and close to your vehicle. Avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.
• When traveling on the highway, try to get to the next exit or stopping point, if you’re safely able to do so.