Keeping Car Safe Makes for Safe Memorial Day

BETHESDA, Md., May 20, 2003 -- With the Memorial Day Holiday weekend upon us and the summer vacation season fast approaching, there is no better time to "Be Car Care Aware" to avoid breakdowns and accidents, according to the Car Care Council.

An average of 13,000 Americans are killed between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, some a result of unperformed vehicle maintenance, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Each year, neglected maintenance leads to more than 2,600 deaths, nearly 100,000 disabling injuries and more than $2 billion in lost wages, medical expenses and property damage.

"Proper car care is important at all times, but is particularly critical during the holiday travel seasons," says Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "When vehicle maintenance is put off too long, you're potentially putting your safety, as well as the safety of your passengers and other drivers, in jeopardy."

A good way to ensure vehicle safety and dependability this coming holiday weekend is to perform a pre-vacation inspection, whether you do it yourself in the driveway or garage or if you visit a professional technician. The following systems should be checked before your trip begins.

  * Cooling
  * Tire Pressure and Tread Wear
  * Braking
  * Lights
  * Hoses
  * Belts
  * Wipers
  * Horn

In addition, an evaluation of the following should be performed: engine performance, tires/wheels, A.C./heater/defroster, instruments/gauges, windshield wipers, horns/lights/mirrors, seat belts and the car's body, inside and out.

Not only can a pre-trip inspection help reduce chances of costly and possibly dangerous road trouble, it also provides an opportunity to have repairs made at home, with one's own technician who knows the vehicle.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" campaign, educating consumers about the benefits of regular vehicle maintenance and repair. For more information and to download your free copy of the Service Interval Schedule, visit www.carcare.org.