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People all over the country – not to mention the world – have endured various stretches of quarantine "lockdown" over the last few months. Now that the weather is warming up and some restrictions being loosened, folks are itching to get out – and a summer road trip is appealing. Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Fairless Hills, PA is dedicated to both service and safety for their clients, so here are some smart tips for families or friends who want to hit the road – safely. PREP YOUR VEHICLE It's more critical than ever to ensure that your Mitsubishi car or SUV is in peak shape. Bring it into Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Fairless Hills, PA to ensure that belts, fluids, tires, and everything else are working properly. Even during “normal” times, a breakdown or accident is annoying; you don’t want that happening during the COVID-19 era. “Social distancing” is a little tricky inside the cabin of your vehicle, although Peruzzi Mitsubishi offers lots of roomy options like the 2020 Outlander and Eclipse. Keep extra masks on hand (and consider folding some tissues into the mask for extra protection). Hand sanitizer and wipes are also a must-have. TAKE INTO ACCOUNT THE TIMES WE’RE LIVING IN It's not like the old days when you'd casually stop into a roadside diner or theme park. You'll still want to limit interaction with others as much as possible. Peruzzi Mitsubishi suggests packing a cooler full of drinks and food to sidestep restaurants. Pick destinations that provide for a lot of extra distancing, such as a park, hiking trail, or beach. Because most people are still a little rattled at the situation (and many haven’t been driving as much and could therefore be a tad rusty), take breaks. Consider 3-hour stretches of driving versus 6 or more. Even if things aren’t quite back to normal, there are still ways to enjoy a little day trip out into the area around you. Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Fairless Hills, PA is always ready to get you back out onto the road and help you enjoy the summer!

No matter how experienced a driver you are, the winter months provide unique driving challenges. Did you see that recent "viral video" of a Minnesota school bus sliding down black ice - sideways? Winters around Quakertown, PA may not be quite as severe, but don't ever take them for granted. Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown has a few reminders to help you stay safe and secure on the road during this colder period.   KEEP YOUR CAR STOCKED An Emergency Kit is essential for every driver. Ensure that you have a portable phone charger, jumper cables, flashlight, a jack/spare tire, some food, and water. During the winter, supplement it with blankets, gloves, and hats. You'll also want an ice scraper, broom, small snow shovel – and some bags of kitty litter to provide traction in snowy conditions.   DO A CHECK OF THE VEHICLE Colder weather affects things like tire pressure and batteries. Before heading out on any trip, ensure that these things – as well as lights, flashers and windshield washer reservoir – are up to speed.   PLAN YOUR TRIP If you have a longer trip on the agenda, check (and double-check) the weather and road conditions. Even if you’re using a GPS, have a paper map or written directions on hand. Give yourself plenty of time and give someone at your destination your route and anticipated arrival time.   SLOW DOWN On slick or snow-covered roads, the smartest thing you can do is to slow down. Don't accelerate or decelerate too quickly; add five or six seconds to your "following distance" and don't try to "power up" any hills. Keep it steady. If you encounter a snowplow, it's best to stay behind it or use a whole lot of caution of trying to pass it. Plows tend to make wide turns, cross over lanes and exit frequently. Stay alert and don't be in any rush to get around one.   IN CASE OF A WINTER EMERGENCY Stay with your vehicle (this is where those blankets and snacks come in handy). Put a brightly-colored piece of cloth on your antenna or window, and keep the dome light on.  If your car is running, clear the exhaust pipe of any snow to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning – and occasionally open the windows.   Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA wishes you safe driving this winter. And remember, springtime is not far away!