Do you have big plans for a summer road trip? Are you looking forward to hitting the road and enjoying every mile you spend behind the wheel?
While there’s nothing more exciting than a summer road trip, you don’t want to forget about the many steps you must take to maintain a high level of safety.
Here are five road trip safety tips that will give you peace of mind (and help you avoid trouble):
- Get enough sleep before you hit the road. It’s easy to believe you’re alert, but your mind and body have a way of slowing down as the miles pile up. To protect against this you’ll want to get as much sleep as possible before leaving home.
- Eat healthy and drink plenty. While driving, don’t forget to stock up on healthy snacks and plenty of water. This can help you feel your best, while also keeping you alert.
- Take planned stops. As frustrating as it may be to stop for breaks on a road trip, you must get into the habit of doing so. Yes, this will slow you down, however, it also gives your mind and body a chance to relax and recharge.
- Practice good posture. The last thing you want to do is slump over in your seat for hours on end. If you do this, it won’t be long before your muscles begin to ache. Sit up straight, breathe deep and take breaks when needed.
- Avoid distractions. It’s easy for a distraction to creep into the cockpit when you’re driving a long distance. From your smartphone to the radio, don’t be surprised if you’re tempted by a distraction. You don’t want to give in, as this greatly increases the risk of an accident.
If a summer road trip is on your schedule, there’s no better time than now to start the preparation process. Make sure your vehicle is ready for the trip. Make sure you know where you’re going and how long it will take. And, of course, take the time to think about your safety.
In the event of an accident, pull your car to the side of the road and call 911. You’ll feel much better once police and an ambulance arrive. From there, receive treatment for your injuries, contact your insurance company, and learn more about the cause of the accident.
