Sterling Insurance Group | Plano, Texas
Summer in Texas is road trip season. From long weekends at Lake Texoma to scenic drives through the Hill Country, North Texans are hitting the highways in greater numbers—and that means more cars, higher temperatures, and increased accident risks.
At Sterling Insurance Group, headquartered right here in Plano, TX, we’re dedicated to helping Texas drivers stay safe and covered—especially when the open road is calling. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a solo drive across the state, or a day trip to the coast, these summer road trip safety tips will help protect you, your passengers, and your vehicle.
Why Summer Road Trips in Texas Require Special Precautions
The summer heat, crowded interstates, and long driving hours combine to create more dangers than many realize. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, summer months see spikes in both vehicle accidents and roadside breakdowns.
In Collin County alone, cities like Plano, McKinney, and Frisco report some of the highest accident volumes between May and August.
Before you back out of the driveway, make sure you’re fully prepared for what the road—and the Texas weather—might bring.
1. Get Your Vehicle Road-Trip Ready
Perform a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection:
Start your journey with a basic checkup. If you’re unsure, visit a certified mechanic in Plano or Frisco for a multipoint inspection.
Key areas to check:
- Tires: Check tread depth and pressure (don’t forget the spare)
- Brakes: Make sure there’s no squealing or delayed stopping
- Battery: High temps can drain battery life—replace if aging
- Fluids: Top off coolant, oil, brake, and windshield wiper fluids
- Air conditioning: Test performance, especially in triple-digit heat
Tip: Texas heat puts extra strain on engines and cooling systems. Overheating is one of the top reasons for roadside breakdowns in summer.
2. Pack a Summer Emergency Kit
Even the best-prepped cars can experience unexpected trouble. In Collin County, roadside assistance often takes longer during peak travel hours. Pack an emergency kit that’s ready for the Texas heat.
Must-haves:
- Bottled water (1 gallon per person)
- Phone charger and power bank
- Jumper cables
- Basic first aid supplies
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Reflective triangle or flares
- Tire repair kit or sealant
For trips through rural Texas or across less-populated highways, consider a cooling towel, portable fan, or even a small shade tent.
3. Plan Your Route in Advance
Avoid traffic nightmares—and dead zones:
- Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to identify traffic-heavy corridors
- Plan rest stops every 2–3 hours to avoid fatigue
- Download offline maps if traveling through areas with poor service (like parts of East Texas)
Texas travel routes to plan carefully around:
- I-35: High congestion from Dallas through Austin and San Antonio
- US-75: Can get very backed up through Plano, Allen, and McKinney
- I-20/I-30/I-45: Watch for construction zones and accident delays
4. Stay Alert Behind the Wheel
Texas leads the nation in drowsy driving crashes. Combine long hours with the blazing heat, and it’s easy to lose focus.
Best practices for driver safety:
- Switch drivers every few hours (if possible)
- Avoid driving between 1–5 a.m., when fatigue risk peaks
- Keep hydrated—but limit caffeine and sugar that cause energy crashes
- Listen to podcasts or audiobooks to stay mentally engaged
Sterling Insight: Many summer accidents involve inattentive or fatigued drivers on highways—something we see often in auto insurance claims from Plano-area clients.
5. Keep Passengers Safe and Comfortable
Traveling with kids?
- Use properly fitted car seats or boosters
- Install sunshades on back windows
- Bring snacks, water, and activities to reduce distractions
Traveling with pets?
- Never leave them in a hot vehicle
- Use harnesses or crates to keep them secure
- Stop frequently for water and walks
Plano has several pet-friendly rest stops and shaded green spaces—plan stops around those to give furry companions a break from the car.
6. Review Your Auto Insurance Coverage Before You Go
Many North Texas drivers hit the road without fully understanding what their policy covers—or doesn’t.
Before you head out on your summer trip, contact Sterling Insurance Group for a quick review of:
What to double-check:
- Liability limits: Are they high enough in case of a serious accident?
- Comprehensive and collision coverage: Does it cover rental cars or road hazards?
- Roadside assistance: Are towing, battery jumpstarts, and lockouts included?
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist: Critical if you’re traveling through rural or out-of-state areas
Sterling Insurance Group is always here to customize your policy before your trip—giving you confidence no matter how far you drive.
7. Be Weather Aware—Texas Summer Storms Can Strike Fast
Summer in North Texas can go from sunshine to storm in a flash.
Watch for:
- Sudden thunderstorms and flash flooding
- High winds or hail damage risk
- Tornado watches (especially in June)
If you’ll be traveling across central or east Texas, where storm risk is highest, keep an eye on radar apps like MyRadar or Texas Storm Chasers. Stay weather-alert to protect your passengers and your vehicle.
8. Book Lodging and Plan Overnight Stops in Advance
Long-distance road trips often require overnight stays. Avoid last-minute surprises—especially during peak summer months.
Booking tips:
- Use trusted apps with cancellation options
- Avoid high-crime areas or hotels with poor lighting or security
- Confirm pet policies in advance if traveling with animals
If your car is packed with gear or valuables, try to park under lights and bring critical items into your room overnight.
9. Know What to Do in Case of an Accident or Breakdown
In the event of an accident:
- Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible
- Call 911 for any injuries or traffic interference
- Exchange insurance and contact info with other parties
- Take photos of damage, scene, and license plates
- File a police report if required
Save Sterling Insurance Group’s number to your phone before your trip—you’ll have fast access to help if you need to report a claim.
10. Watch for Out-of-State Driving Rules
If your road trip takes you outside Texas, be aware that driving laws vary:
- Some states require hands-free cell phone use only
- Speed limits may drop drastically in rural or school zones
- Toll roads may use different systems than Texas’ TollTag or TxTag
Always carry your license, registration, and proof of insurance, and make sure your insurance covers out-of-state incidents.
Road Trip Statistics for Texas Drivers
Here are a few summer driving facts that Collin County drivers should know:
| Statistic | Source |
| July is the highest accident month in Texas | TxDOT |
| 1 in 5 summer crashes involve distracted driving | Texas DPS |
| Over 20% of auto insurance claims in summer involve windshield damage or hail | Insurance Information Institute |
| Plano sees a 20% increase in accident reports during June–August | Local PD records |
Summer road trips should be memorable for the right reasons—not accidents, breakdowns, or insurance hassles. Whether you’re driving across Collin County or across the country, the right preparation and the right coverage can make all the difference.
Sterling Insurance Group has helped protect Texas drivers since 2003. We’re proud to serve families and businesses throughout Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, and the surrounding area with auto insurance, liability protection, and personalized service.
Sterling Insurance Group | (972) 964-4825 | sterlinginsnow.com