Safe2Drive Blog

School’s out, bags are packed, and the open road is calling. It’s officially summer road trip season! But before you blast your playlist and hit the gas, take a minute to go over some common mistakes drivers make on long summer drives. A little planning now can save you from big headaches later.

Here are 7 things to NOT do on your road trip this summer:

1. Driving Distracted or Drowsy

It’s tempting to check your GPS, text a friend, or scroll for the perfect playlist, but keep your eyes on the road. Distracted driving is one of the top causes of collisions. And don’t forget that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous. Take breaks, switch drivers if you can, and don’t push through if you’re feeling sleepy.

2. Skipping Vehicle Maintenance

Before you leave, check your tire pressure, oil, coolant, brakes, battery, and wiper blades. Hot weather can be hard on your car, especially if you’re driving a long distance. A quick check-up now can prevent a breakdown later.

3. Ignoring Speed Limits in Unfamiliar Areas

Speed limits can change quickly from highways to small towns—especially in vacation spots. Keep an eye on signs and don’t rely entirely on cruise control or what other drivers are doing. Getting pulled over or caught by a speed camera is no fun (and expensive).

4. Overloading Your Vehicle

Overloading your vehicle can affect braking, steering, and fuel economy. Check your vehicle’s weight limits and try to pack smart. If you’re towing a trailer, make sure it’s hitched and balanced correctly.

5. Forgetting to Check Your Insurance

Make sure your auto insurance is up to date and that you know what your coverage includes. Planning to rent a car? Call your provider or check your policy to see what’s covered. It’s also smart to keep a printed copy of your insurance card in the glove box.

6. Skipping Emergency Gear

Always keep a basic emergency kit in your car. That means jumper cables, a flashlight, phone charger, water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. A roadside emergency can happen anywhere—even just a few hours from home.

7. Not Planning Enough Breaks

It’s not just about the destination! Build in time for breaks so you can stretch, eat, and enjoy the trip. It’ll help you stay alert and avoid rushing, which cuts down on risky driving behavior.

With just a few smart moves, you can avoid these common road trip mistakes and make your summer adventure smooth and safe.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

School’s out, bags are packed, and the open road is calling. It’s officially summer road trip season! But before you blast your playlist and hit the gas, take a minute to go over some common mistakes drivers make on long summer drives. A little planning now can save you from big headaches later.

Many of us got hand-me-downs as our first vehicle. Mine was a 1999 Saturn with an always-on check engine light that I simply ignored because it was always on and it didn’t seem that important. Unsurprisingly, I was heading to class one day when I noticed smoke rising from under my hood. I pulled over in an empty parking lot to assess the damage. Long story short, I missed class and had to go get a new car instead.

Drivers often overlook or misunderstand the various warning lights and sounds our cars give us. These signals can provide critical information about your vehicle’s health and help you avoid costly repairs or dangerous situations. Knowing how to interpret them can save you a lot of money and peace of mind. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the most common vehicle alerts and tell you what to do if you see them.

Check Engine Light

One of the most common and concerning warning lights is the check engine light. It could indicate a variety of issues, from a loose gas cap to a malfunctioning engine sensor. While it doesn’t always mean your car’s about to go up in smoke like mine did, it’s important to get it checked as soon as possible. If the light is flashing, it could indicate a more serious problem, like a misfiring engine, which can damage the catalytic converter. Consult with a mechanic right away.

Oil Pressure Warning

This light looks like an oil can and is letting you know that the oil pressure in your engine is low. Low oil pressure can lead to engine damage if ignored. If you see this warning, pull over safely and turn off the engine. Check the oil level and top it off if necessary. If the light remains on, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible to avoid damaging the engine.

Brake Warning Light

The brake warning light may come on for a few reasons, such as low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or an issue with the braking system. If this light is on, it’s a sign that something isn’t working right with your vehicle’s braking system. If it turns on while you’re driving, slow down and avoid any sudden maneuvers. Pull over in a safe spot and get your brakes looked at by a mechanic before you drive again.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System light coming on means that one or more of your tires are underinflated, which can affect your car’s handling and fuel efficiency. If you see this warning light, it’s important to check your tire pressure. You can do this at a gas station or with a tire pressure gauge. Low tire pressure can be especially dangerous in wet or icy conditions, so don’t ignore this warning and make sure your tires are properly inflated based on your vehicle’s needs.

Battery/Charging Alert

If the battery warning light comes on, it could mean that your car’s charging system isn’t functioning properly. This could be because of a bad alternator, a loose or corroded battery terminal, or a weak battery. If this light comes on, stop and check the battery connections and look for any visible issues. If everything appears fine but the light remains on, you probably need to have the charging system inspected by a mechanic.

ABS Warning Light

The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light indicates a problem with your car’s anti-lock brake system. While it won’t necessarily mean you can’t use your brakes, it can reduce the effectiveness of your ABS system, especially in slippery conditions. If this light comes on, get your vehicle inspected as soon as possible to ensure your ABS is functioning properly.

Temperature Warning Light

The temperature warning light usually looks like a thermometer submerged in liquid. This light means your engine is overheating, which can cause serious damage if ignored. If you see this light while driving, pull over and turn off the engine to give it time to cool down. Check the coolant levels once the engine has cooled down, and if the light doesn’t turn off, get your vehicle checked by a mechanic.

Brake Assist Warning (Proximity Alert)

Some vehicles come equipped with brake assist systems that alert you when you’re too close to the vehicle in front of you. This system uses sensors to detect the distance between your car and the one in front of you, and if you’re approaching too quickly, it may will issue a visual or audible warning. In some cases, if you don’t react in time, the vehicle may automatically apply the brakes to prevent a collision. This feature is especially useful in stop-and-go traffic or situations where you may not have noticed how close you are to another car. Always pay attention to these alerts and adjust your speed and following distance accordingly to avoid collisions.

Traction Control Warning Light

The traction control system helps prevent wheel spin during slippery conditions, and if the traction control light comes on, it could mean that the system is active, working to maintain grip on the road. If the light blinks intermittently, it usually means the system is doing its job. However, if it remains on, it could signal a malfunction, and you should have it inspected.

Airbag Warning Light

The airbag warning light indicates that there is an issue with your vehicle’s airbag system. This could mean that the airbags aren’t functioning properly and may not deploy in the event of a collision. If this light comes on, it’s important to get the system checked by a professional as soon as possible.

Understanding and responding to your vehicle’s warning signs is essential for maintaining both your safety and your car’s health. Ignoring these alerts, whether it’s the check engine light or the tire pressure warning, can lead to bigger issues down the road. If you’re ever unsure about a warning light, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Taking the time to understand these warnings can give you peace of mind and keep your car in tip-top condition for years to come.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

Many of us got hand-me-downs as our first vehicle. Mine was a 1999 Saturn with an always-on check engine light that I simply ignored because it was always on and it didn’t seem that important. Unsurprisingly, I was heading to class one day when I noticed smoke rising from under my hood. I pulled over in an empty parking lot to assess the damage. Long story short, I missed class and had to go get a new car instead.

Distractions are everywhere. According to NHTSA, over 3,300 people died in 2022 due to distracted driving. With so many distractions around, it can be difficult to keep your focus solely on the road. Here are ten tips to help you minimize distractions behind the wheel.

1. Put your phone away.

If you rely on your phone for navigation or music, consider using Do Not Disturb mode or enabling a "driving" setting that silences notifications. Otherwise, keep your phone out of reach and out of your line of sight. It’s super distracting and dangerous to use a phone while driving.

2. Plan your route before you start.

Last-minute changes to your route can lead to distractions. Make sure you input your destination into your GPS before you even start the car. If you’re unsure about the route, take a few minutes to check directions or look for any traffic issues ahead of time. Also, using a voice-activated navigation system to avoid having to look at your phone or GPS screen while driving is super helpful!

3. Limit conversations with passengers.

While chatting with passengers can be enjoyable, engaging in deep or emotional conversations can take your focus away from the road. Keep conversations light. If a discussion gets too intense, it’s okay to ask the passenger to pause or redirect the conversation so you can focus on driving safely.

4. Avoid eating or drinking while driving.

Eating and drinking behind the wheel is a major distraction. It takes your hands off the wheel and your attention off the road. To minimize distractions, take a break to eat or drink before getting on the road, or pull over to a safe spot if you need a snack. If you do need to eat while driving, make sure it’s something easy and not messy!

5. Set up music before you go.

Adjusting the stereo or flipping through playlists while driving can take your focus off the road. Avoid this distraction by selecting your music or podcast before you start driving.

6. Don’t drive drowsy.

Fatigue is a major distraction that often gets ignored. When you’re tired, your reaction times are slower and it’s harder to focus on the driving task. If you’re feeling drowsy, it’s best to pull over in a safe spot and take a break.

7. Secure loose items and pets.

Loose items and pets in your vehicle can be a significant source of distraction. Whether it’s a water bottle rolling around or a pet moving about the car, these distractions can take your attention away from the road. Always secure items in the glove compartment, trunk, or under seats. If you’re traveling with pets, make sure they’re properly secured in a pet carrier or with a pet seat belt harness to prevent them from moving around and distracting you.

8. Take advantage of your vehicle’s safety features.

Many modern vehicles come equipped with safety features that help reduce distractions. Technologies like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot detection can help you stay focused on driving by providing alerts and assisting with vehicle control. Take time to familiarize yourself with these features and use them to your advantage, but don’t expect them to take over driving for you. It’s still your job to stay alert.

9. Keep your vehicle clean and organized.

When your car is messy or disorganized, it can distract you from focusing on the road. Make it a habit to keep your vehicle tidy and regularly clean the interior. Not only will it help reduce distractions, but it’ll also make for a more enjoyable driving experience for yourself and your passengers.

10. Stay mindful of external distractions.

It’s not just what’s inside your car that can distract you--external distractions can also take your attention away from the road. Billboards, collisions, pedestrians, or even other drivers can be tempting to look at, but doing so increases the risk of a collision. Stay focused on the road ahead and avoid letting outside distractions affect your driving.

Distractions behind the wheel are a serious threat to your safety and the safety of others on the road. But with a few simple steps, you can significantly reduce distractions and become a more focused, responsible driver. By putting your phone away, planning your route ahead of time, and staying mindful of your surroundings, you can create a safer driving experience for everyone.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

Distractions are everywhere. According to NHTSA, over 3,300 people died in 2022 due to distracted driving. With so many distractions around, it can be difficult to keep your focus solely on the road. Here are ten tips to help you minimize distractions behind the wheel.

If you’re reading this after a slightly panicked Google search wondering "Wait, can I still fly without a REAL ID? " take a deep breath. You’re not the only one! The REAL ID deadline officially hit on May 7, 2025, and yes, the rules for domestic travel have changed. But no need to panic: here’s everything you need to know about what that means now, what your options are, and how to avoid getting turned away at TSA.

Wait, what’s a REAL ID?

Simply put, REAL ID is a federally approved form of identification (usually a driver’s license) that meets heightened security standards set after 9/11. After years of delays, the government finally made it official: as of May 7, 2025, you must have a REAL ID (or an alternative approved ID) in order to:

• Board a domestic flight
• Enter certain federal buildings or military bases

This means that even if you’re just flying from New York to California, or anywhere within the country, you won’t be allowed to board your flight without a REAL ID.

How Do I Know If My License Is REAL ID Compliant?

Look for a star in the upper right corner of your driver’s license or state-issued ID. If you see one, congrats: you’re compliant! No star? Then your ID won’t work for domestic air travel anymore, even if it’s not expired.

Also worth checking: some states issue licenses that say "Not for Federal Identification" or "Federal Limits Apply." These are not compliant either.

I missed the REAL ID deadline and I have to catch a flight tonight! What do I do?

If you missed the REAL ID deadline, you may still be able to board your flight. You’ll just need an alternative, TSA-approved ID. That could include:

• A valid U.S. passport or passport card
• A Department of Defense ID
• Permanent resident card
• Foreign government-issued passport

You can find the full list of TSA-approved IDs here.

If you don’t have one of these, and you don’t have a REAL ID, you won’t be allowed through security at U.S. airports from now on.

How do I get a REAL ID?

If you want to avoid traveling with your passport every time you fly to visit family or go on a weekend trip, it’s time to get yourself a REAL ID. Here’s what to do:

• Book an appointment at your state DMV.
• Bring the right documents. This may vary depending on your state, so make sure to check what’s needed before you get there.

Traveling is stressful enough; don’t let your ID be the reason you miss your flight. If you’ve got a trip coming up and aren’t sure whether you’re good to go, check your license now and plan accordingly.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

If you’re reading this after a slightly panicked Google search wondering "Wait, can I still fly without a REAL ID? " take a deep breath. You’re not the only one! The REAL ID deadline officially hit on May 7, 2025, and yes, the rules for domestic travel have changed. But no need to panic: here’s everything you need to know about what that means now, what your options are, and how to avoid getting turned away at TSA.