The Bureau of Transportation Statistics indicates that nine out of 10 long-distance trips are made by personal vehicles. While driving yourself and your family is certainly economical and provides a level of freedom, it also puts you at risk of a serious accident. Here are some ways you can reduce your risk of being involved in a crash.
Make Sure that Your Vehicle Is in Good Condition
Making sure that your vehicle is in good condition is one of the easiest ways increase your safety during a road trip. Before you head out, make sure that your tires, windshield wipers, headlights, brake lights, turn signals, brakes, and heat are operable and in good condition. Taking your car to a shop and asking mechanics to give it an inspection is a good way to ensure that your car is safe to drive.
Take Your Time and Plan Your Route
Driver fatigue is a serious issue during long road trips. Driving while tired can affect your reaction time and judgment and put you at risk of falling asleep at the wheel. Do not try to make long-distance trips in a few days as possible, and be sure to plan where you will stay overnight. There is nothing worse than wanting to get off the road—only to find that the next hotel or motel is 100 miles away or that everything in your area is booked.
Drive Safely Around Large Trucks
Any long road trip will inevitably put you in close proximity to semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles. It is important to understand that these kinds of vehicles handle much differently than smaller passenger cars and trucks, and also impair driver visibility. Be sure to give these vehicles plenty of space, and always make sure that you can see the truck’s mirrors. Avoid the areas directly in front of, behind, and to either side of large trucks.
Be Prepared for the Worst
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that you keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. Specific items to have include cell phone and charger, a first aid kit, jumper cables, water, blankets, flares, and a flashlight. Do What You Can to Avoid Distractions Distracted driving is one of the more common causes of serious accidents. When you are on a road trip, do what you can to minimize distractions, including putting your cell phone in your glove box or another place where you can’t easily reach it. In addition, take frequent breaks so that you can stay focused on driving. Injured in an Accident?
Call Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC Today to Discuss Your Options
Accidents happen, even when people are as careful as possible. In the unfortunate event that you are injured during a road trip, you should call an attorney as soon as possible. Gwinnett County car accident lawyer David Brauns understands how to get car accident victims the compensation they deserve and will review the facts of your accident at no cost to you. To schedule a consultation with Mr. Brauns, call today at 404-418-8244 or send us an email through our online contact form.
