If you're planning to visit a foreign country this summer, you should know that about 25,000 tourists are killed in motor vehicle accidents worldwide each year. That information shouldn't interfere with your travel plans but it should make you want to prepare for your safety. Here are four simple steps you can take to keep you safe while you travel.

Avoid Night Driving in Areas without Street Signals and Lights

If you're traveling to a foreign country for your vacation, you should familiarize yourself with the location before you begin driving. This will allow you to identify areas that may not have proper lighting or street signals. If there are areas that are lacking proper lighting and signals, you should avoid those areas while driving. It's particularly important that you avoid those areas while driving at night.

Always Choose Marked Taxis

If you've decided to use taxis during your vacation, there are some precautions you can take to ensure your safety. First, always choose taxis that are properly marked, including signs that clearly identify them as taxis. Second, always make sure that the driver is licensed to operate a taxi. The license should be clearly visible in the driver compartment of the taxi.

Always Be a Diligent Pedestrian

If you'll be spending most of your vacation on foot, you can avoid accidents by practicing diligence during your walks. It's particularly important that you take extra time before you cross the street at intersections, especially if you're not used to vehicles traveling on the left side of the road. That extra glance could keep you from getting struck by a vehicle you weren't expecting.

Travel with Identification

If you're in a foreign country, don't ever leave your hotel room without proper identification. In the event of an accident, you might not be able to identify yourself to emergency care providers. If your injuries require you to be transported by air ambulance, emergency responders will be able to use your passport to notify your relatives in a timely manner. Here are the documents you should have on you at all times during your vacation.

• US identification such as state identification card or driver's license
• Passport or visa
• Insurance cards

It's time for a vacation and you're going to be traveling to a foreign country. Don't take chances with your safety. The information provided here will help keep you out of air ambulances while you're on vacation.