Getting out for the July 4 holiday weekend? A camping trip somewhere in the Upper Peninsula? Visiting friends or relatives downstate? Perhaps just a drive to some of the nearby celebrations.

One of the things that can ruin plans quicker than a thunderstorm is car trouble. This is a case where a little prevention goes a long way, according to AAA.

“As you finalize your travel plans, don’t forget to check your vehicle’s condition,” Adrienne Woodland, public relations manager for AAA-The Auto Club Group, said in a news release. “A simple pre-trip inspection of your tires, battery, brakes, and other essentials can prevent unexpected breakdowns.”

AAA offers these tips to prevent vehicle problems —

— Check the tires: Ensure proper inflation and tread depth. Don’t forget the spare!

— Inspect the brakes: Grinding noises or vibrations signal a need for service.

— Test the battery: If the engine starts slowly or the lights are dim, it may be time for a replacement. AAA members can get battery checks at a AAA Car Care, Approved Auto Repair Facility or call AAA to request on-site service.

— Replace wiper blades: If the wipers streak or don’t clear the windshield thoroughly, replace them.

— Top off fluids: Check oil, coolant, and brake, transmission and power steering fluids. Use products recommended in the owner’s manual.

— Replenish your emergency kit: Include essentials such as a flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, water, non-perishable snacks, jumper cables, emergency flares and a basic tool kit.

If experiencing car trouble —

— Safely get to the nearest exit or stopping point.

— Pull over as far as possible to create distance from passing traffic.

— Turn on the hazard lights.

— Call for help via phone, website or the AAA Mobile app.

— Stay with the vehicle if it’s safe to do so.

— If you exit, watch for traffic before moving to a safe location.

Safe driving reminders

AAA reminds drivers that “crashes hit different when they happen to you.” On average, 40,000 people per year are killed in traffic crashes. The four most common factors are speed, distraction, impairment and not wearing a seatbelt.

To avoid becoming a statistic, AAA recommends —

— Watch your speed: Speeding contributes to a third of all motor vehicle fatalities. Slow down and stay in control.

— Stay focused: Distracted driving kills thousands yearly. Avoid phone use, eating or passenger distractions while driving.

— Don’t drive impaired: Alcohol and drugs compromise judgment, motor skills and reaction time. If impaired, find a safe alternative.

— Stay alert: Fatigue is as dangerous as drunk driving. Take breaks every 100 miles or two hours to stay refreshed.

— Wear a seatbelt: Seatbelts are one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce injury and save lives in a crash. Buckle up, every trip, every time.

Finally, move over for roadside workers and stranded motorists. According to AAA, roadside crashes claim nearly 350 lives annually, including one tow operator every other week. AAA urges drivers to obey Move Over laws and give space to stranded motorists, tow trucks and emergency responders.

“Our roadside technicians risk their lives to help stranded drivers,” Woodland said. “If you see flashing lights, move over or slow down. This simple act can make all the difference in protecting those who work tirelessly to keep drivers safe.”