Road trips offer an array of wonderful opportunities, including exploring new destinations, creating lasting memories, and connecting with loved ones. While a road trip may sound like a great way to experience new places, it is important to keep in mind that a road trip may still have its dangers. Although you may be a safe and cautious driver, others on the road may not be.
There are over 40,000 deaths caused by car accidents every year. Knowing this, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and to be prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise during your journey.
A road trip can be a test of your endurance, testing both you as the driver and the vehicle you are driving. As Utah car accident attorneys our team has seen hundreds of accidents from road trips, so here are the steps you should take to enjoy a safe and fun journey.
Before You Leave
Plan Your Route:
Before you even get in your car you should have your route to your destination fully planned out. You can use a service like google maps or your cars built in navigation system to help safely guide you throughout your trip.
Utilizing a navigation system can be incredibly helpful for your journey. These services will take into account construction zones, road closures, traffic advisories, and even weather conditions that may affect your route. When you plan your route beforehand it will not only help you minimize unexpected delays and keep you on the right route.
Conduct Vehicle Maintenance
A road trip can take a toll on your vehicle if it is not properly maintained. Before you hit the road it is essential to make sure that your car is ready for the trip ahead. Schedule a comprehensive vehicle inspection with a qualified mechanic to ensure that your car is optimal operating condition. If you do not have time to get your vehicle thoroughly serviced then make sure you check the following: Tire pressure, fluid levels, brakes are working properly, both headlights turn on, and your windshield wipers work.
It is also important to be prepared for any potential hazards. Make sure that your vehicle has a spare tire, jumper cables, a flashlight, and basic tools for any small repairs you may need to make. Consider also packing an emergency kit if your vehicle breaks down and you are stranded for an unknown period of time. A proper emergency kit should include: water, an emergency blanket, toilet paper, non-perishable food, and other essentials such as contact solution if you wear contacts.
If you maintain your vehicle and stay up to date on service then your chances of your car breaking down will decrease significantly.
Get Sufficient Rest:
During a road trip you may travel for several hours at a time and it can be difficult to keep yourself awake. Fatigue is one of the leading causes of car accidents during long drives. In fact, the National Safety Council estimates that over 100,000 accidents are caused by drowsy driving, resulting in nearly 800 fatalities and about 50,000 injuries.
Getting proper rest is key to making sure that your journey is safe. To keep yourself alert while on the road consider taking a break every 1-2 hours to stretch your legs, this can help keep you rejuvenated and ready for the trip ahead of you. If you are traveling with passengers try to share driving responsibilities with your companions to avoid exhaustion.
Remember, a well rested driver is a safe driver.
On The Road
Buckle Up and Secure Passengers:
Wearing your seat belt is the most simple and effective way to protect yourself and your passengers in the event of an accident. According to the National Highway Safety and Traffic Administration, by simply buckling up you reduce your chances of fatal injury in a car accident by over 50%!
Before you start driving ensure that everyone in your vehicle is properly buckled up. If you have young children take the time to make sure that they are safely secured in an appropriate car seat or booster seat for their age. When you are buckled into your seat your chances of serious injuries in a car accident will be reduced tremendously.
Minimize Distractions:
Distracted driving is a serious risk on the road. The NHTSA estimates that distracted driving claims 3,500 lives a year. While you are on a road trip it is crucial to minimize any distractions while you are driving.
If you are behind the wheel avoid using a phone entirely as it can divert attention from the road. In fact, sending just one text can take your eyes off the road for more than five seconds. Reading text messages can also be distracting and lead to serious accidents. Instead of handling these distractions yourself consider utilizing a car’s handsfree system or having a passenger designated to handle this. Maintain and keep your focus on the road and surroundings at all times. Remember this slogan while you are driving, “Arrive alive, don’t text and drive!” Don’t let a text message while driving become your last.
Following Traffic Laws:
Obeying traffic laws may sound like an obvious step to take, however it is often forgotten while on a road trip. While driving for long periods of time the speed limit may begin to feel like a suggestion rather than a rule, it is not. Traffic laws are created for your safety as well as the safety of others. Try your hardest to adhere to the speed limit, as well as traffic signals and road signs as much as possible.
Try your best to avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating and excessive lane changing. Simply being a responsible driver will significantly reduce the chances of you being involved in a car accident.
Contacting LifeLaw
As you plan your next road trip adventure, keep these safety tips in mind to ensure a smooth journey to your destination. Before you hit the road make sure that you have prepared, taken care of vehicle maintenance, and that you are awake and responsible for your driving. By doing this you will be able to prevent any accidents and protect yourself and your loved ones.
These precautions can only do so much, and another driver may end up causing an accident on your journey. If you or someone you know is injured due to someone else’s negligence the Utah car accident attorneys at LifeLaw Trial Lawyers are here to help. Our team of car accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the aftermath of a car accident. Let us build your case and get you the compensation you deserve so you can focus on what’s really important, your recovery. If you have been injured and you don’t know what to do next give our team a call at 801-206-4002 for a free consultation today and to figure out your next steps.
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