As Labor Day quickly approaches, friends and family are looking forward to a long weekend with a road trip on the horizon. You might focus on the destination or fun stops along the way, but safety needs to be your main concern. Follow these safety tips during your Labor Day road trip so you’ll be prepared for any situation and be able to enjoy your vacation worry-free.
Practice Tire Changes
You may know the basics of changing a car tire, but when is the last time you actually completed this task? Before your road trip, take some time to practice changing a tire. Jack the car up, remove the tire and place the spare on the vehicle. Fill up your spare tire with air. If you have a tire issue on the road, you’ll be ready and prepared.
Get an Oil Change
Schedule an oil change before your road trip. Mechanics can also top off other vehicle fluids that your car may need. During this service, experts will let you know if there are any red flags with the vehicle. Take care of any issues before a long drive; it is vital for your safety. A fresh oil change will preserve your engine’s components and life of your car.
Be Respectful of Truckers
Many Labor Day drivers aren’t familiar with maneuvering around truckers and their large rigs. Be mindful of the physics surrounding these vehicles, they’re heavier than small cars and require more space to accelerate and stop. Maintain your distance from trucks so accidents don’t become part of the drive. You may feel tempted to cut in front of trucks to get ahead in traffic, but this scenario often ends up in a severe collision that can ruin a long weekend.
Consider an Early Start
Starting your long drive after lunch will only place you in the mist of heavy traffic. During high traffic times, more accidents are possible. Leave early so that you miss the majority of traffic heading in your direction. This way you’ll arrive at your destination earlier, making the most of your vacation time. Make sure that everyone is packed and ready to go once they wake up. Grab breakfast on the road to conserve time. Early birds will reap the benefits having a better and longer weekend.
Minimize Distractions
Smartphones, tablets and laptops are all distractions that your family may be using during the drive. As the driver, pay attention to the road. Set the radio station before pulling out of the driveway so that your hands are always on the wheel. The navigator beside you should be altering any dashboard components, such as turning up the volume or changing the air-conditioning level. By focusing on the drive, you’ll be able to avoid any accidents presenting themselves on the road. Distracted drivers have an increased chance of a fender benders or worse.
Switch Drivers
Switch drivers during your road trip about every two to three hours. This time frame gives the driver enough time to focus on the road without becoming fatigued. It’s important to stop, take a restroom break and switch out drivers. The next driver will be fresh and ready for the road’s challenges. Continue with this pattern until you reach your destination. Remember fatigued drivers are just as dangerous as drunk drivers.
Use GPS Technology
Getting lost on your way to a Labor Day destination can be dangerous and time consuming. Using a GPS device, plug in your destination at home when the vehicle isn’t in motion. Allow the device to guide you along the way. If there’s any confusion with the route, the navigator should fix the issue. Also, print out a hard copy of directions as a backup in case the GPS loses its satellite signal.
Bring Along Tools
Simple tools, such as tire-pressure gauges and car jacks, should always accompany you on a road trip. Any concerns that arise will have the proper tool for a quick resolution. Consider bringing a small toolbox for the back of the car. You don’t have to carry every tool from the garage, but the basics are helpful if a mechanical issue occurs. Gloves and extra engine fluid can also make a difference on the road. Bring bottles of water to help you stay hydrated on your trip.
Think About Worst-Case Scenarios
The odds are in your favor when it comes to a safe ride and following basic protocols, but emergencies can still occur. Play the devil’s advocate and think of worst-case scenarios. Pack up an emergency kit that ensures your safety on the road. Fill it with blankets, batteries and a first-aid kit. You may never use these items, but it’s important to have them on board just in case.
Maintain a level of common sense when you arrive at your destination. Your mind may be on vacation, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect the basic protocols. Don’t leave any valuable items in the car that can be easily seen by outsiders. Take or hide your belongings in the truck so that there’s no temptation for theft. With a good head on your shoulders, you’ll be able to enjoy Labor Day weekend without any stress.
