Follow these tips to stay safe on the roads this summer.
As summer quickly approaches, many families are planning their vacation trips out of town. The roads are anticipated to be chock-full of happy and anxious vacationers making their way around the nation. If you are heading out to your favorite vacation spot, it is important that you drive defensively. You can’t control what other drivers who are in a hurry to get to their destination will do, but you can limit your risk by being highly aware and alert. Follow these tips to stay safe on the roads this summer.
1. Adjust Your Speed for Weather Conditions
Although most people think to slow down when there is sleet or snow on the road, not many people understand the dangers of driving when the road is wet. If it is raining, make sure to slow it down. If it really starts coming down, pull over and wait it out. Take some time to smell the roses and play it safe to get to your destination safely
2. Know Where You Are Going Ahead of Time
GPS is one of the best navigational tools in existence, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t risky. Most drivers blindly use their GPS without always paying attention to their common sense. To make sure that you aren’t stopping quickly to make an exit or cross lanes last minute because your phone told you to without enough notice, have a general understanding of the directions before you hit the road. Just because your smartphone tells you to take the next left does not mean that it is safe to do so.
3. If You Are Tired, Take a Break
Sleep deprivation is as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. If you have been on the road for too long and are exhausted, then you are less likely to pay attention or react quickly, which might result in some really unsafe decisions. If you need a break to regroup, take it!
4. Take Time to Pullover and Eat
Although it saves a lot of time to eat on the road, if you are driving, you shouldn’t ever multi-task. Stopping to get some food in your stomach will refresh your mind and mean that you aren’t driving distracted, which is the biggest risk factor for getting in an accident. Stop and enjoy some meal-time with your family. You will get there when you get there, enjoy the ride and time together.
Before you head out for your family vacation this summer, take the time to plan things out. Sure, the object is to get to your destination, but not at the sacrifice of your safety. Take it slow and take your time. After all, that is what vacation is all about.
If you are involved in an accident, make sure to call an experienced attorney to help protect your legal rights and get you the compensation you deserve.