by Emily Luxen
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -The summer travel season turned dangerous after two family vacations ended in disaster.
A young mother was killed, and her husband and infant child injured in a crash on I-24 in Rutherford County. In a separate incident, a family of seven from Tennessee was injured in a crash on the way to Disney World.
Officials with AAA Tennessee said the summer driving season is one of the busiest and most dangerous.
"The more people you have on the roads, the more likely something could happen to you," said Jim Lott, Area Manager for AAA.
Lott added simple precautions go a long way in ensuring you reach your destination safely.
"It's a great idea to go and have your car checked out before you go," said Lott, "You don't want to break down on the road."
Lott said that checkup should include making sure your tires are inflated and in good condition, making sure your battery is in good shape, and your windshield wipers are working.
"If you break down in the middle of a roadway, get away from your car, put your flashers on and make your car as visible as you can," he said.
Lott also said you shouldn't try and push yourself too hard; drowsy drivers are responsible for thousands of accidents each year.
"It is always a good idea to take frequent breaks," he added.
Now many cars are armed with fatigue prevention systems that alert the driver when there may be a problem. Warning lights or messages pop up on the dashboard to draw attention to everything from nearby pedestrians to erratic driving. At Volvo of Nashville, Sales Manager Karen Dudash said the features are becoming more popular and could help save your life.
"We want to keep the driver awake and alert," said Dudash. "This will let them know you are not driving down straight down the road and you need to stop."
Experts agree common sense is the key to a safe trip.
"Just relax and enjoy the drive," said Lott.
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