4 Life-Saving Road Safety Tips for Your Next Road Trip
Your bags are all packed and waiting at the door. You’ve checked off everything on your to-do list. You’re excited. You’ve been looking forward to this road trip.
But have you made plans for road safety?
A road trip can help you reboot after a stressful period in your life. It’s also a great way to connect with loved ones and explore the world. But here’s the thing… it’s easy to get caught up in the nitty-gritty of travel logistics and forget about road safety.
Unfortunately, a seemingly harmless road trip can suddenly turn into a nightmare due to an oversight during the planning process.
Make no mistake, you can never be too safe on the road. According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), there were 37,133 fatalities and 1,889,000 injuries resulting from road accidents in the year 2017. Grim statistics, to say the least.
So, what road safety measures do you need to take to make your road trip much safer?
1. Have Your Car Inspected
The last thing you want is to go on a road trip with a faulty car. Make an appointment with your auto mechanic before D-day so they can inspect it for mechanical issues. They should check the following:
· Fluids (oil and coolant)
· Lights
· Wipers
· Wheels and tires
· Brake pads
· Leaks
· Drive belts
· Spare wheel
· Clutch
You want to have this done a few weeks before the scheduled travel date. This way, you’ll have ample time for any necessary repairs. It also gives you the chance to get another car if yours cannot be fixed in time for the trip.
2. Inspect Baby Car Seats or Booster Seats
Taking the kids along for the trip? The thing is, children should be right at the top of your road trip safety checklist. The NHTSA reports that in 2016 the lives of 328 children under the age of 5 were saved by using restraints properly.
So, what to do?
First, ensure the baby seats are in excellent condition. Second, strap each seat in the car correctly before sitting your child in it. Taking an extra 15 minutes to do this can be a life-saver in case of an accident.
3. Get A Good Night’s Sleep
Driver drowsiness is one of the leading causes of road accidents. So, on the night before the trip, get at least 8 hours of sleep if you’ll be driving. You’ll give your body enough time to rest before hitting the road the next day.
4. Pack Your Car the Smart Way
Avoid traveling with unsecured luggage since it can be hazardous to the car’s occupants. Suddenly hitting the brakes can easily send your luggage flying through the car’s cabin. For this reason, put heavy luggage in the boot and under the seats. This way, the luggage stays in place throughout the trip.
Conclusion
Bookmark this article and come back anytime. Read through it again and again anytime you’re planning a road trip. You’ll be safer on the road for it.
