With the warmer summer months approaching, you may be planning more day, weekend, or longer road trips either by yourself or with your family. The last thing you want is for a fun vacation to turn into a scary nightmare if you are involved in a car accident. This can be even more stressful if you are in a strange place where you do not know anyone.
How Can You Avoid a Car Accident While on a Summer Trip?
While you cannot control other drivers on the road, you can take steps to avoid an accident and to be prepared if one happens. Follow these tips to have a fun trip this summer:
- Take your car to your mechanic. Have your mechanic inspect your vehicle and make any necessary repairs before you start on your trip. You do not want a mechanical problem to be the cause of a crash or to keep you from your destination.
- Check your spare tire. Be certain your spare tire is in working order and that you have a jack and any other tools you would need to change a flat tire.
- Prepare an emergency kit. Prepare an emergency kit to take with you that contains things you might need, such as bottled water, first aid kit, jacket, blanket, and flashlight or flares.
- Plan your trip. Before your trip, make a plan, including where you can stop for gas, to sleep, and to eat. Be sure to pull over to eat rather than doing so while on the road.
- Get a good night’s sleep. To avoid being drowsy while you drive, go to bed early the night before and get a good night’s sleep.
- Stay alert. When you are driving, stay focused on the road and on your driving. Avoid talking on your cellphone, texting, or other unsafe distractions.
- Practice defensive driving. Be conscious of what drivers are doing around you and anticipate their actions. Take defensive measures to avoid potential dangers, such as speeding, distracted drivers, or intoxicated drivers.
- Stay sober. Do not drive when you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Even over-the-counter and prescription medications can affect your driving ability. Your reaction time and general driving skills will be reduced.
- Avoid nighttime driving. When possible, avoid driving at night when it is more difficult to see and there are more dangers of drunk drivers on the roads.
Even when you do everything you can to keep your family safe, you cannot guarantee that a negligent driver will not cause a car accident. At Tavss Fletcher, we have been helping victims of car accidents for over 30 years. If you have been hurt in an auto crash, fill out our online form to get your case started and to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team.
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