Whether for business or pleasure, many people must drive long distances throughout the year. Considering that, it’s essential to learn how to stay safe while on the road for long periods of time. Driving for longer distances can increase certain risks that you’ll need to be aware of. In this post, you will learn four of the best tips to keep in mind when driving long distances.
Take Your Automobile to a Mechanic
Before driving your vehicle long distances, you’ll want to take it to a mechanic. A trusted mechanic can perform maintenance checks to ensure your car is ready for the road. Considering the distance you’ll be driving, a maintenance check is also great for replacing worn filters and refilling vehicle fluid levels.
Keep Electronic Devices Out of Reach
While it might be tempting to check your phone while driving, don’t do it. Unfortunately, many people are injured or killed each year due to distracted driving. Instead, set your mobile phone out of reach and preferably on silent mode. You’ll have plenty of time to check your phone including during driving breaks and before you go to bed.
Avoid Fatigued Driving at All Costs
Statistics gathered from the NHTSA found that fatigued driving tragically killed 846 drivers during 2014. Some of the most significant dangers occur when driving while sleepy. It’s understandable to want to get to your destination as fast as possible. Unfortunately, the risks of driving while fatigued are not worth it. To avoid this problem, you’ll want to make sure that hotel rooms are booked before your trip begins. In turn, you’ll never have to worry about driving fatigued while looking for a room in the middle of the night.
Re-Fuel at Regular Intervals
Nothing can ruin a long distance drive faster than running out of fuel. In order to avoid this problem, make sure that you stop for fuel at regular intervals. This doesn’t mean waiting until your fuel light turns on. It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to know where fuel stops are in a new state. Therefore, follow the highway signs and stop for gas before you ever see your fuel light come on.
In closing, there are several tips to remember while driving long distances. Sadly, many people make costly mistakes while driving long distances that could have fatal consequences. Following the previously mentioned tips will help ensure you stay safe while on the road.
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