Driving Season: Road Safety Tips for Travel on Busy Roads

Editor's note: This post was originally published on May 21, 2015 and has been updated for accuracy and relevance.

Spring break, the unofficial start of road trip season, is right around the corner, and many college students and families will be planning to drive to nearby destinations. Increased traffic on the roads and navigating unfamiliar areas can be challenging. While there can be many dangers on the open road, most are avoidable. Make sure you are prepared ahead of time for any curve balls thrown your way when traveling. Here are several tips to help you prepare for an upcoming road trip and reduce your chances of being involved in an accident.

Inspect Your Vehicle Before Getting on the Road

Thoroughly inspect your vehicle before getting on the road. Check fluid levels and top off anything low. Ensure your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are all in good working order. Before your trip, perform routine vehicle maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations. Inspect your tire tread, ensuring the depth is not less than 2/32”. Worn tread can lead to less effective stopping, slipped tire belts, and blowouts. If your tire tread is good, make sure the tire is also properly inflated. Underinflation can lead to premature tire wear, blowouts, and reduced fuel efficiency. Install a fresh set of wiper blades and fill your windshield washer fluid reservoir.

Plan Your Road Trip Route Ahead of Time

Even with today’s GPS technology in most cars or on cell phones, it is still a good idea to get a general idea of your  route before getting on the road. Familiarize yourself with the route in case you lose GPS or phone service during travel. Verify that the route you intend to take has no road closures or detours. Plan for fuel stops, especially if

your vehicle requires fuel other than regular unleaded gas. Not all gas stations sell diesel, premium unleaded,

non-ethanol, or E-85 gas. Some stations limit what is available after hours when no attendant is on duty. If you are driving an electric vehicle, be sure to identify charging stations along your route and consider the added charging time when planning your trip.

Check the Weather Along Your Travel Route

Check the weather before getting on the road. Watch the news or use a weather app to check the weather locally before you leave. A weather app can also give you information about the weather at your intended destination and points in between. Knowing the weather conditions along your route will help you make safer driving decisions, budget your drive time more efficiently, and ensure you arrive safely at your destination.

Prepare for Traffic Before You Leave

Traffic is inevitable on any length of road trip. With many people traveling at the same time to popular destinations, there will be an increase in vehicles on the road. Slow down, keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you, and be prepared for stops and delays. Allow extra drive time when planning your route in case you encounter traffic. Consider driving during off-peak hours to reduce your chances of getting caught in traffic.

Top off your gas tank frequently, ensuring you have adequate gas if you run into long delays while on the road.

Avoid Driving Distractions and Tired Driving

Distracted driving is the number one cause of accidents in the U.S. Many people multitask while driving, eating, drinking, putting on makeup, talking or texting on their phones or with other people in the vehicle, and all of these activities take your focus away from the road. Try to keep distractions to a minimum. Designate your passenger to help you with navigation and music. Take breaks during your drive to stretch, eat, and return phone calls and texts rather than trying to do these things while driving. Switch off driving duties with a passenger if you start to get too tired or lose focus, or take a short rest break if you are the only driver.

Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car on Road Trips

Stock your car with emergency essentials before you hit the road. Investing in one is an excellent idea if you don’t already have a dedicated emergency kit for your vehicle. Include jumper cables, a flashlight, road safety flares, tire sealant, an empty gas can, and essential tools to change a tire or make minor repairs. A small fire extinguisher is also a good idea to have on hand. Basic supplies like bottled water, non-perishable food items, emergency blankets, and a rain suit or change of clothes can also be helpful in many situations.

Following these tips on a road trip or anytime you are driving is a great way to keep distractions at bay, make sure your vehicle is road-worthy, and help you have an overall safer driving experience. If you experience an accident on the road, Medines Collision Center is your trusted partner, ready to assist with all your post-collision repair needs.