Five Tips For Avoiding Accidents On Road Trips
When you go on a road trip the last thing you want to have happened is an accident. However, accidents do happen. Even though they can happen whether you’re prepared or not, there are still some things you can do that can help you to avoid accidents.
You see, accidents aren’t always your fault, but if you are paying attention you could avoid one that might have been caused by someone else. Here are a few tips on how to do your best to have an accident-free road trip.
Watch The Trucks
Semi trucks are the kings of the road. Those big rigs are the reasons your store shelves are full and your mail makes it from state to state and around the world. They have a problem seeing little vehicles (all vehicles are little to them) and if you get in their big blind spot you could find yourself smooshed. If you can’t see their mirrors, they can’t see you.
Be Prepared
Always be aware of your surroundings. You need to see the big picture when you’re behind the wheel, and not just what’s in front of you. Bear in mind that anything can happen on the road, so you’d want to be prepared in case something happens. Consider taking up first aid and CPR training; store some medical supplies in a first aid kit; learn how to change tyres and basic mechanics; keep a satellite phone handy while travelling far if you have one; have maps at your disposal; and of course, keep the numbers of servicemen, hospitals, and the police stored in your phone.
Keep Kids Occupied
Children can be a huge distraction when you should be concentrating on the road. Make sure you brought something along to entertain them, whether it’s a traveling game or a portable DVD player. The less their talking to you the better your driving will be.
Don’t Be A Distracted Driver
Distracted driving can happen to people on the road without children as well. Don’t eat, text, make calls, play with the radio, do your makeup, or read a map while you’re behind the wheel of a vehicle that is in motion. Save that stuff for when you stop at a rest stop or a restaurant. You might just stay alive this way, and not kill anyone else either.
Get Your Car Into The Shop First
You can avoid causing an accident of your own by taking your vehicle in for a checkup before you start your road trip. Get the tires and oils checked, get your breaks tested and make sure all of the safety stuff works (lights, seat belts, airbags). You don’t want to blow a tire going 75 mph, so make sure things are good and you’re more likely to make it to your road trip destination and back again.
Accidents are bound to happen, even if you follow every one of these tips. However, you’ll at least have a better chance of avoiding them if you do pay more attention and leave the distractions behind.