20 Tested Road & Driving Tips
Summer is almost here, and studies show that 60% of Americans plan road trips during the hot and sunny summer months. With fuel prices low and alternate methods of travel being less economical, people will be taking advantage of our country’s vast infrastructure of highways.
- Before a long drive, be sure to get enough sleep before leaving.
- Pullover and take breaks every couple of hours. Grab a snack, get some fresh air, and stretch your legs.
- If possible, bring a friend or family member to share the driving responsibility. This helps with conversation and safety and enables one of you to take a nap without losing any time.
- If you ever need to pull over, always move your vehicle completely off the road.
- Know the laws along your route, especially cell phone usage laws.
- Refrain from taking any medication that may make you drowsy.
- Watch out for bad weather. If possible, plan your route around it.
- Search the web for traffic, especially when navigating through major cities.
- Use your car’s integrated GPS, an external GPS unit, a smartphone maps app, or bring a map to ensure you don’t get lost along the way.
- When renting a rental car, familiarize yourself with the vehicle and its safety equipment.
- Lock all of your valuables in the trunk or glove compartment.
- Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws such as making a right turn at a red light, yielding to pedestrians, etc.
- Before going on a long road trip, make sure your vehicle is in prime condition. Check your tires and fluids and that your gas tank is full.
- Having a roadside assistance program always comes in very handy in emergencies.
- Keep costs down by conserving gas as you drive. Remember, it takes less fuel to drive 55 miles per hour than to drive 70.
- Don’t wait until your gas take is close to “E.” Refill at the nearest station when your gauge shows a quarter of a tank.
- When traveling with children, be sure to stop often. Pullover for breaks and small activities.
- When stopping for snacks, consider grocery stores rather than convenience stations for healthier and less expensive options.
- On longer trips, keep supplies stocked in your vehicle. Supplies such as napkins, beverages, spare change for tolls, a first-aid kit, flashlight, pillow, and blanket can come in handy.
- Last but not least, make sure everyone buckles their seat belt. Not only is it safe, but it’s also the law.
