The car is packed and it’s time to leave. The excitement about your long-awaited road trip overshadows any thought about the driving itself. You’ll want to be extra careful while on the road, though. Safely driving long distances can be overwhelming. Below are a few tips to stay safe while driving.
Longer Road Time Increases Risk
You’ll be spending a lot of time on the road and the longer you spend driving, the greater your risk of getting into an accident. Driving for long periods can be monotonous and tiring, which can lead to mistakes. Be sure to take breaks often to avoid making any driving errors. If you are traveling with someone else who can also drive, consider taking turns to avoid tiring yourself out.
Bad Weather Means More Danger
If you’re driving in an unfamiliar area, you may not know about the local weather conditions. If there is any chance of bad weather, be sure to drive cautiously. Heavy rain can make it difficult to see and can cause hydroplaning. Snow and ice can make roads slippery and hard to navigate. Be aware of the forecast before you start driving and plan your route accordingly. Familiarizing yourself with potential weather hazards can help you pack a roadside emergency kit with the supplies you’ll need in case you run into trouble, which can vary with the season.
Inexperienced and Impaired Drivers Are a Hazard
If you’re driving with someone inexperienced, be sure to take extra care. Inexperienced drivers may not know how to handle certain situations or might not be aware of potential hazards. Likewise, be on the lookout for impaired drivers. Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be a danger to themselves and others on the road, as any auto accident attorney can attest. If you see someone driving erratically, extra slow, or veering in the lanes, keep your distance and call the police. This call could save your life, or someone else’s. In the event of an accident, be sure to seek legal help as an impaired driver may be responsible for the damage. Always have the number of an attorney on hand in case you get into a car accident.
Animals Can Block the Road
You never know when you might encounter an animal on the road so be especially cautious in areas where there are likely to be animals, such as near forests or farmlands. Animals get confused and their escape route is unpredictable, so if you see an animal on the road, slow down and be prepared to stop. Many animals hunt or move under the cover of night, so it’s important to be extra cautious when driving at night in these areas. If you hit a large animal, contact the police to report it so they can arrange to move the animal off the road for the safety of those in other vehicles.
Long road trips will inevitably present a list of reasons that caution is critical. By remembering the dangers that come with long periods on the road, you can be better prepared to take care of yourself and your passengers to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for everyone.