Ten essential tips for safe driving on road trips
Whether it’s spring break, summer, or just a weekend getaway with friends or family, a road trip is a great chance to have some fun. However, that fun can come to an abrupt end when problems arise.
These ten safe driving tips for road trips will help you keep trouble at bay.
1. Inspect your vehicle
Before you hit the road, make an appointment to have your vehicle serviced. You’ll be less likely to have a breakdown if your vehicle has been maintained. Don’t forget to check your tire pressure, which can improve your gas mileage.
2. Use your GPS
You should plan your route before you leave, but using your GPS will ensure that if you make a wrong turn, you’ll find the way back to your destination. It’s also wise to save this map on your phone if you head through an area that has no phone service.
3. Keep your eyes on the road
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents. Don’t rummage for things, send texts, or do anything that takes your attention away from driving.
4. Minimize your conversations
Going on a road trip with friends or family is an excellent chance to bond. However, conversations can distract you from driving safely. Limit how much you chat with your fellow occupants and stay focused.
5. Don’t eat and drive
Whether you’ve packed a cooler full of food or you stop at a drive-thru, take a moment to sit and finish eating before driving. You want to have both hands on the wheel since eating while driving can lead to an accident.
6. Take breaks
You shouldn’t go a long drive without taking breaks to fuel up or rest. Stretch your legs and avoid driving for too long. Stop at a hotel to get a good night’s rest, which will minimize your chances of fatigue on the road.
7. Wear seatbelts
Everyone in your vehicle should buckle up as soon as they get in the car. Don’t let your occupants unbuckle and climb around in the back if they need to get something. Pull over if you need something so that everyone stays safe.
8. Follow all road rules
While different states have different laws, the rules of the road are universal. You should obey all traffic signs and follow the posted speed limit. Getting a speeding ticket would certainly put a damper on your road trip.
9. Put an emergency kit in your car
Arguably, having an emergency kit in your car is essential even when you’re not on a road trip. Things can happen in the blink of an eye, and if you get stranded on a remote stretch of road, you’ll be glad you have supplies.
You should include a first aid kit, flashlight, charger for your phone, flares, jumper cables, candles, matches, water, blankets, and non-perishable foods. These things will help keep you and your passengers safe until help arrives.
10. Know what to do after a car accident
No one ever expects to get into a car crash, especially not while on a road trip. If this happens to you, you should know what to do. Call 911 to report the accident, and don’t refuse medical treatment if you’re hurt.
Contact an Aurora car accident lawyer to help you know the right steps to take.
The article Ten essential tips for safe driving on road trips first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.