There are over 38,000 fatal accidents on U.S. roadways, the Association for Safe International Road Travel reveals. Staying safe on the road is important for all car journeys, but especially on taxing longer drives. Planning your route, eliminating distractions, and being prepared for emergencies will help you reach your destination both safely and comfortably.
Plan your route
Take the time to carefully plan your drive before you leave. Not only can not planning your route end up causing you to get lost, but you may also miss out on unmissable roadside attractions along the way. Installing GPS will give you peace of mind, keep you safely on track, and help you find hotels, shops and restaurants easily. Additionally, planning regular rest stops will give you the chance to take a break from driving and stretch your legs. Look at Google’s interactive rest area map to find local rest stops and amenities available.
Eliminate distractions
Distracted driving kills an average of 2,841 people every year in the US. Technology is a major reason drivers are distracted on the road. Investing in hands-free tech can keep distraction to a minimum and better ensure road safety. For example, with a Bluetooth headset, you can talk on the phone without taking your hands off the wheel. However, you should only use your phone for emergencies. Even if you’re chatting with a hands-free device, you still may not see vital visual and audio signs that can help you avoid collisions. In fact, social conversations on cell phones while driving are illegal in certain jurisdictions.
Be prepared in case of an accident
No matter how careful you are while driving, you still may be involved in a road accident. Knowing how to react in this situation will ensure you get the help you need. First, call 911 as soon as possible; EMTs will be sent to assess and treat your injuries, and police will create a report detailing what happened. It’s also important to contact a lawyer — click here to find out just how personal injury attorneys can help your situation. Whereas insurance companies use any reason they can to withhold compensation, a lawyer can act on your behalf to win the compensation you rightly deserve.
Adequately preparing for longer drives is a must for staying safe, alert and energized on the road. Although long car journeys pose certain dangers, practicing safe driving habits can help you avoid them.