It’s time once again to come together and visit loved ones, some of whom may be far away. If you choose to make it a road trip to visit family this holiday season, make sure you are ready for the road. Many of us haven’t traveled very far in a while; we all need a refresher on how to travel safely! Read our tips on how to be safe on the road during the holidays.
Before You Drive
You should always do a general check of your car before taking a long road trip. Make sure you check your tire pressure and have fluids topped off before hitting the road. If you may drive into inclement weather, have an ice scraper handy. To be extra cautious, especially if you will be driving on country roads or in very rural areas, include a flashlight and blanket in your car.
Tips for Driving Alone
Long trips on your own can be exhausting. It is important to have a plan as you drive to keep yourself focused and awake.
- Have a playlist ready for music you know will keep you singing and having fun!
- Listen to audiobooks or podcasts.
- Make frequent stops. If you’re nervous about using rest stops off highways, find a safe destination that you know will be accessible throughout your journey (ie, Starbucks or Target).
- Stop at malls to walk around for 10-15 minutes if you’re feeling sleepy.
Tips for Inclement Weather
You may not be used to winter weather on the road. Follow these safety tips should you encounter snow, sleet, or even ice:
- If vision becomes impaired, slow down, turn on wipers, and turn on hazard lights. Move to the right lane. Pull off the road if you cannot safely see the road in front of you.
- In slippery conditions, go slower than the speed limit (about 10 mph slower). Should your car start to skid, turn into the direction of the skid to slow your car.
- Black ice can be very hard to spot at night. You should not drive if black ice is likely to be on the road.
Remember, it is always better to arrive late and safely than to risk driving in hazardous weather. Be cautious and use common sense on the road.
We wish everyone a happy holiday season! Enjoy visiting friends and family, and we will see you next year!
