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Home > Learning Center > Insights > Auto Insurance By State > California > Road Trip Tips
Safe Driving Pointers for Your California Road Trip

When it’s time for some R&R, most Californians don’t even have to leave the state to get away from it all. California vacation destinations are only hours away by car. Getting there is simply a road trip away.

Esurance offers some tips on great places to drive to in California and how to get there safely and save on your auto insurance at the same time.

In California you can:

  • Ski the slopes of The Sierras
  • Bask on the beaches of San Diego
  • Visit the state capital in Sacramento
  • Leave your heart in San Francisco
  • Watch the sunset in Monterey
  • Look at palm trees in Palm Springs
  • Sip wine in the Napa Valley

Make sure you get to your California getaway safely (you’ll also save on auto insurance and other auto-related expenses) by following these tips:

  • Get your vehicle checked out. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order before you begin a long trip. For tips on keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape, read:
    Maintaining Your Vehicle.
  • Pull over to look at the beauty around you. The scenery from Highway 1 is very beautiful, but the twists and bends of the single-lane road need your full attention. Serious collisions, and the resulting injuries or auto insurance claims, could ruin your trip if you don’t keep your eyes on the road.
  • Delegate for safety. Make sure you assign your passengers tasks to help you drive safely. For example, assign back-up drivers to take over when you start feeling sleepy and always have someone who’s good with a map to keep you on course. Doing so will help make everyone feel involved and it could lower your accident risk. (Remember, accidents on your record increase your auto insurance premium.)
  • Watch out for wildlife. As civilization increasingly encroaches on the wilderness, wild animals are closer than ever before to traffic. It’s possible you’ll encounter a few during your trip. Read, Don’t Take a Ride on the Wild Side, for tips on avoiding some common wildlife and the impact these beasts can have on your auto insurance premium.
  • Don't drink and drive. If you plan on drinking, start out by taking cabs or public transportation. That way, you won't have to make a decision about driving when you're least able to do so. If you're going out with a group of people, select a designated driver. Doing so could save a life. For more sobering information on drunk driving, take a look at None for the Road.

When you hit the California roads this year, Esurance hopes you enjoy all that California has to offer— safely.

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