According to the Car Care Council, " ... tow truck operators along

interstate highways see all too many travelers forced to return home ahead

of schedule due to car trouble. The situation usually means more than just

a repair bill. It can involve towing charges, lodging and a possible rental

car. Add to that the cost of extra phone calls, meals and general inconvenience,

and the ordeal becomes expensive."

Joel Burrows, a.k.a. "The Car Doctor," and vice president of training

and R&D at PTAC advises teens to make it a habit to walk around their

cars and make a visual inspection of their tires. He recommends adjusting

all mirrors and checking windshield wipers before the car is put in gear. "Poor

vision and inadequate lights during a rain storm can be a deadly combination,

as can adjusting these vital components while engaged in driving the vehicle," explained

Burrows.

He also urges drivers to buckle up and follow posted speed limits. "Students

need to be well-rested before they head out for a long trip