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What to Watch Out For On Your Next Road Trip

Road trips can be a great deal of fun. There is plenty to do and see when you travel by car, truck, or van. Of course, you always want to take precautions to ensure your safe journey. Learn about what to watch out for on your next road trip to help you and your passengers fully enjoy your road trip and, of course, travel safely.

drive safely

Do These Checks Before You Leave

Before you head out, make sure that your vehicle is completely road-worthy.

One of the dangers that drivers encounter on the road is unexpected breakdowns.

Doing a complete check of your vehicle before you head out will help to keep you safe on the road.

Check the tires for proper inflation and to make sure they are in good condition. Flat tires are the number one reason for road breakdowns.

Check the treads to make sure there are not any bald spots or problem areas. Check all the fluids in the vehicle and replenish them when necessary.

If it has been a while since you had an oil change and you are almost about due for one, get the oil changed before you leave.

Simple steps with your vehicle can make a big difference to your ability to travel safely and worry-free.

Check the Weather Ahead of Time

Weather and driving conditions can change dramatically from region to region.

Knowing what to expect before you arrive at your destination or even on your journey is essential to being able to travel safely.

For example, if you are making a trip from Florida up the Northeast coast in January, you may find entirely different driving conditions by the time you hit Virginia.

Prepare yourself to adjust your driving by knowing what the weather is down the road.

Pay Attention On the Road

If it is your turn to drive pay attention. Distracted driving is a huge problem. About 3,142 people died in car crashes in 2019 because of distracted driving. Texting, eating, doing your makeup, any activity that will take your eyes off the road for more than three seconds can be a recipe for disaster.

Keep the music down to a comfortable level.

About 37.5 million Americans (around 15%) report experiencing hearing problems, and this is a big contributor. All your senses must be on board. The bottom line is you need to pay attention.

Know the Laws

You must know the laws for the areas that you are driving through.

Driving laws can be very different from state to state. Even DUI laws can be different. Of course, you never want to drink and drive.

In Texas, the threshold for intoxication is a blood-alcohol level of .08%.

Check speed limits and any driving laws that may affect how you should drive.

For example, right on red is allowed in many states and cities, but it is not allowed everywhere. Knowing what the rules are is important to ensure that you can travel safely.

Map Your Route

You should have an idea of which roads you will be traveling and make note of where gas stations, eateries, and lodging is along the route.

Having a plan in place when you are traveling on the road and making notes of where things can prove to be very beneficial and help you to travel safely.

Routing your map using GPS technology will help you to avoid things like traffic and accidents.

GPS systems can provide you with a wealth of information about where gas stations, lodging, and eateries are located on your route to make for easy and convenient stops.

Stay Safe

If you get tired while you are driving look for a safe location to pull over and get a little shut-eye.

Studies have shown that tired driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.

If you are out of range of lodging, consider pulling over into a well-lit area to get some rest.

Keep your doors locked and do not open them for anyone.

Road trips can be an excellent way to get to where you want to go but you always want to be sure that you are taking the steps to travel safely.

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