Planning to hit the highways for Thanksgiving? If so, you won’t be alone. AAA expects record-breaking travel numbers this Thanksgiving -an estimated 71.7 million Americans.

Which means likely more motorists stuck on the roadside as well. AAA estimates more than 570,000 will have some type of vehicle problem, with the three most common calls being for flat tires, dead batteries and lockouts.

Which is why AAA is recommending getting the vehicle checked out before the journey.

“Don’t let car trouble be the reason you don’t make it to Thanksgiving dinner,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokeswoman for AAA-The Auto Club Group. “Before setting out for your holiday road trip, get a full vehicle inspection to ensure everything is in proper working order.”

AAA’s vehicle checklist includes —

≤ Tires: Underinflated tires are the No. 1 reason for tire blowouts. Check the tread and properly inflate all vehicle tires, including the spare if the vehicle has one.

≤ Battery: The average car battery life is typically 3 to 5 years. If the engine is slow to start and/or the lights are dim, the battery may be nearing the end of its life. Drivers can ask for a battery check at a AAA Car Care Center or Approved Auto Repair Facility. AAA can also come to a member’s location to test and, if needed, replace the battery on site.

≤ Brakes: Hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes? Take the vehicle to an auto repair shop for a brake inspection.

≤ Emergency kit: Create a kit that includes a cellphone charger, flashlight and extra batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.

If vehicle trouble does surface during the trip ≤ Pull as far over on the shoulder as safely possible to create more distance between your vehicle and passing traffic.

≤ Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.

≤ If able to safely make it to the next exit or stopping point, do so.

≤ Call for assistance via phone, website or the AAA Mobile app.

≤ Remain with the vehicle as long as it’s safe to do so.

≤ If getting out of the vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit, and remain alert and close to the vehicle. Avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.

AAA also reminds motorists to slow down and move over for first responders, tow trucks and any motorist with a disabled vehicle on the side of the road.

“We want to make sure all holiday travelers, tow truck drivers and first responders make it home safely this Thanksgiving,” Woodland said. “All drivers can help by moving over for flashing lights, whether it’s a tow truck or a disabled vehicle with its hazard lights on. Even if it adds a few minutes to your commute, that small gesture could save a life.”

To prevent roadside collisions, drivers should remain alert; avoid distractions and focus on driving; constantly scan the road ahead for potential hazards; move over a lane when approaching a vehicle on the roadside or, if not possible, slow down to safely pass; and watch for people on the roadside

— Iron Mountain Daily News