When many people think of the 4th of July, they think of America’s independence, cook-outs, family gatherings, road trips and fireworks. But what most people don’t think of is road safety. With July 3rd and July 4th being two of the deadliest days to drive, Insurance.com is reminding all motorists to drive safely during the upcoming 4th of July week.

“Car accidents traditionally increase during the summer months, especially during the holidays when alcohol and long road trips are involved,” stated David Roush, CEO of Insurance.com. “That is why Insurance.com is committed to reminding drivers to play it safe this 4th of July and plan ahead before heading out to a holiday party or on a 4th of July vacation.”

To help keep you and your family safe this 4th of July, Insurance.com has listed their Top Ten 4th of July Driving Tips.

1. Don’t drink and drive. No matter if you are attending a holiday gathering close to home or if you are on a road trip, drinking and driving is never a good idea. Play it safe this 4th of July and either have a designated driver to drive you home or call for a cab.
2. Buckle Up! Wearing seatbelts every time you drive is the easiest way to help keep you and your family safe in the event of an accident. If you are traveling with small children make sure they are in a proper car or booster seat for their age group and height.
3. Watch your speed! State and local police officers will be out in full force during the 4th of July week. So make sure to obey the speed limits of the state you are in and keep a safe distance between the cars in front of you! Remember, a speeding ticket can mean points on your driver’s license and a potential increase in your auto insurance rate.
4. Check your tires. The last thing you want is your own “fireworks display” while on the highway. That is why it is important to inspect your tires before you head out on your trip. Make sure to check the tire pressure in your tires. Many drivers fail to do this – and low tire levels can potentially cost them more money in gas to fuel their car. It is also a good idea to have your tires rotated by a professional mechanic before you leave on a long trip.
5. Make sure your battery has enough juice. If it has been a few years since you replaced your car battery, you might want to do so before you leave on your 4th of July vacation. It is better to be safe than sorry when you are traveling far from home.
6. Turn on your lights. Something many of us fail to check before leaving for vacation are headlights, tail lights and turn signals. To ensure everything is working properly, have a family member or friend walk around the car while you test the car lights and signals from the inside.
   
7. Pack a first aid kit and roadside assistance kit. It’s always a good idea to keep a first aid kit and a roadside assistance kit in your car at all times. You never know what could happen, so it is better to play it safe. While you’re at it, consider packing a cooler of water, a flash light, non-perishable food and extra batteries.
8. Rain, rain, go away! The 4th of July weekend can bring the sun and blue skies, but it can also bring rain storms. That is why it is important to check the weather before you leave and during your trip. If you do get caught in a torrential downpour, pull off to the side of the road or to a rest area until the rain has stopped. And if the area you are in floods, don’t try to drive through it, find an alternative route. You may have to back track a bit, but it will be worth it in the long run.
9. Watch your surroundings! One of the most popular ways to celebrate the 4th of July is by attending a fireworks display at a local venue. These types of events typically generate large crowds of people and pedestrians. If you are driving to or from a fireworks celebration, make sure to drive with caution and care with these large crowds about.
10. Proof of car insurance. Whether you are traveling close to home or out-of-state you should always have your proof of car insurance in your wallet and in your glove box. It’s a good idea to keep a disposable camera, note pad and pen in your car, just in case an accident occurs.

If you are interested in switching your auto insurance or would like to get an auto insurance quote, visit Insurance.com’s auto insurance comparison application. Here, you can evaluate multiple rates from best-in-class car insurance providers, helping you save time and money on your car insurance.

(www.insurance.com)