Avoid an Auto Collision on Your next Summer Road Trip!

Summer is almost here, which means many Missourians will pack their bags, get in their cars, and go on vacation!

As you can expect, summer often means a lot more traffic. And whenever there are more cars on the road, the chances of accidents also tend to grow. Here are a few tips to keep you safe during your next summer road trip.

1. Wear a Seatbelt at All Times

Particularly if you’re stuck in traffic and barely moving, you may want to take off your seatbelt and relax for a bit. Longer drives can also make the seatbelt feel uncomfortable, but you should never take it off while in the car. If it’s starting to bother you, it’s better to pull over and rest for a bit.

2. Be Extra Careful When Driving at Night=

Driving at night is very common during a vacation because you’ll most likely want to arrive at your destination as soon as possible. However, you should be extra careful when doing so, because your senses and reflexes aren’t as great as during daytime driving.

For one thing, you’ll probably be a bit tired, which can affect your focus. Unless you’re used to being active during the night, your body will most likely demand it’s sleep soon. And, if that is the case, it’s best to listen to it.

3. Pack the Essentials for the Trip

Even if it’s just a few hours long drive, you should still make sure you have the important things with you: food, water, first aid kit, spare tire, and any other things you may need. It’s best to be prepared in these situations.

4. Have Another Driver Join Your Vacation

The best way to make sure you don’t get driver fatigue is to share the driving duties with another passenger and take turns. That way, you can minimize the chances of making a mistake because you’re too tired to focus, as you can take some time to rest while the other driver is behind the wheel.

Of course, sometimes that’s not possible, and you’ll be the only designated drivers. Don’t overextend your abilities, and take as many breaks as you need, maybe even spend a night at a motel instead of driving until dawn.

5. Take Care of Your Car Before

You don’t want your engine to stop on the road, do you? So take your car to a mechanic before any road trip, and have them check it to make sure everything’s in order before your vacation.