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6 Tips To Stay Safe While On A Road Trip
BY Abdul Aziz Mar 1, 2023
Road trips are a great way to spend time with family and friends, but they can also be dangerous if you don't take precautions. Every year, more than 1.3 million people die in road car accidents worldwide, and 3,700 people lose their lives every single day on the road. These accidents also cause injuries that lead to lifelong disabilities and devastating emotional trauma for survivors. But it doesn't have to be this way. You can stay safe on your next road trip by following these six tips. 6 Important Tips About Stay Safe While On A Road Trip Prepare Your Vehicle Before setting off, it's crucial to make sure your car is ready for your road adventure. Here’s what to do: Check Tire Pressure – Proper tire pressure is essential for optimal handling, fuel efficiency, and tire life. You can measure it using a tire pressure gauge. Just make sure the tires are cool (not hot from driving) when taking a reading. Purchase Comprehensive Car Coverage – Buying comprehensive car coverage from a provider like ROLLiN' Insurance can keep you protected in case of car damage due to theft, natural disasters, or animal accidents as you cruise along your road trip. Pump Low Tires – Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the tire sidewall. You can also consult your car manual for this. Look at the Tire Tread – If the tread is uneven or low, it could lead to decreased traction, higher chances of blowouts, and extended braking times. Measure Fluid Levels – Check oil, coolant/antifreeze, and windshield wiper fluid (if applicable) levels. You should also keep an eye on the levels of transmission and brake fluids. Keep an Emergency Kit – According to the NSC, you should always keep a jumper cable, flashlights, batteries, compass, wheel wrench and tripod jack, first-aid kit, duct tape, and a properly inflated spare tire on hand. Plan Your Route Planning your route ahead of time can make all the difference in having a safe and successful trip. Here are some things to keep in mind: Research your route ahead of time and plan for potential hazards or delays. You should always have a map or GPS with you. Take into account the weather when planning your trip. Check for snowfalls, hurricanes, tornadoes, heavy rainfall, and other weather events. Check road conditions before leaving. If there’s snow or ice on the road, it's best to wait until conditions improve before traveling to avoid getting stuck in a dangerous situation. Practice Safe Driving Habits Driving is a privilege, and it's up to you to ensure you're driving safely. Your first responsibility in this regard is to obey traffic laws and drive safely. Keep in mind that speed limits vary from state to state. However, the average speed limit on freeways is 55 mph, which has been increased to 65 mph on rural interstate highways. But having the leave to do something doesn’t mean you should do it. So, don’t overspend, tailgate, or cut people off — just be a good (and safe) driver. Moreover, it's a wise move to equip your vehicle with the essentials. This can include the addition of trauma kits and other emergency supplies such as a basic first aid kit. This safety measure ensures that you're well-prepared in the event of an accident on the road. Be Aware of Your Surroundings If you're driving at night, make sure you have your headlights on to see clearly. Also, keep an eye out for local regulations and laws while passing through each new area. You don't want any surprises when it’s time for border crossings or other checkpoints! Plus, stay alert for suspicious activity or potential dangers along your route — this is especially important if you’re traveling alone. Remember: it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting yourself from harm while traveling. Protect Your Valuables The last thing you want is to have your belongings stolen or lost while you're far away from home. Here are three tips to help you protect your valuables on the road: Keep your valuables, such as wallets, phones, and cameras, out of sight in the car. Avoid leaving them on the seats or dashboards where they are visible from the outside. Always lock your car doors when you're not in the vehicle, even if you're running a quick errand. When parking your car, try to choose a spot that's visible and well-trafficked. This can make it less likely that someone will try to break into your car or steal it. Stay Connected While you're driving, it's essential to keep in touch with friends and family back home. So carry a charger or a portable battery pack. It will keep you connected even if your phone's battery runs low. Plus, consider using a location-sharing app that allows your loved ones to track your location in real time if you’re exploring a new area. And don’t forget to keep a list of emergency phone numbers with you, including the local police, fire department, hospital, and any other emergency services in the area. Final Words As you set out on your next road trip adventure, it's important to keep safety in mind. By following these simple but effective tips, you can enjoy a safe and stress-free road trip. So buckle up, pack your bags, and hit the road for your next adventure with confidence and peace of mind. Read Also: The Easy Way to Travel in India 10 Useful Tips For Planning A Trip That You Will Love Why Engage Competent Tourism Companies For Executing Best Leisure Time
