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This year, millions of people are expected to drive to their holiday destinations. Many of these trips will be 50 miles or more. With so much traffic on the road, drivers need to remain cautious at all times. Here are some important holiday travel safety tips to remember.
Have Your Vehicle Inspected & Serviced
Before hitting the highway, be sure to have your vehicle inspected by a certified automotive technician. The last thing you want is to experience a breakdown during one of the busiest times of the year. From the tires to the brakes, everything needs to be in A1 condition. All of your car’s necessary maintenance should also be taken care of ahead of time. It’s especially important to get an oil change.
Get Some Rest
On the night before your road trip, be sure to go to bed at a decent time. Driving while sleep-deprived is a recipe for disaster. You need to be fresh and alert while behind the wheel. To ensure that you will get a good night’s rest, avoid drinking any caffeinated beverages or alcohol. Studies show these substances can shorten REM sleep, thus leaving you feeling tired the next day.
Eliminate Driving Distractions
While modern technology is wonderful, it can become a serious distraction for drivers. The best approach is to put away your cell phone. Texting while driving is an absolute no-no. Although GPS navigation systems are helpful, it’s still not a good idea to constantly stare at the screen. Whether the vehicle ahead suddenly comes to a stop or a pedestrian walks into your path, you must stay prepared to take action. Tens of thousands die each year due to car accidents, 749 people lost their lives in 2022 in Kentucky alone. It is estimated that more than 3,300 fatalities nationwide can be blamed on distracted driving in the same year.
Don’t Speed
Even if you’re running behind schedule, avoid speeding at all costs. According to research, traveling 10 mph above the posted speed limit can double your chances of being involved in a crash. Speeding drastically reduces your reaction time. Of course, you should definitely slow down when encountering inclement weather. You won’t be able to stop as quickly on slippery roads. Always maintain a safe following distance.
Have An Emergency Plan
Some things are simply beyond your control. In the blink of an eye, a nail could suddenly puncture one of your tires. This is why you need to have an emergency plan. Keep the contact information for a roadside assistance provider on standby. Some of the essentials that you need include a flashlight, extra water, non-perishable snacks, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, and a blanket. You should also avoid allowing your phone’s battery to deplete.
Try to Avoid Starting Your Trip After Dark
Although there may be less traffic on the road at night, traveling during the daytime is still more secure. The darkness causes reduced visibility, which can make it harder to see upcoming obstacles. When traveling in rural areas, there’s always a chance of encountering animals crossing the highway. Furthermore, a greater number of impaired drivers tend to be on the road at night. If you want to beat traffic, leave early in the morning before rush hour.
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