Out on the highway, there are a lot of factors you can’t control. There are two key factors that help with handling the unexpected: (1) being proactive (2) being prepared. Here at Wheels Donlen, we want to make sure you have the tools you need to be both proactive and prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
We don’t want you to risk anything that might ruin your trip, so here are five tips to reach your destination safely:
Being Proactive
Seatbelts on always: According to the CDC, seatbelts lower the risk of serious injuries by 50%. They keep you secure when you have to make a sudden brake or turn. Again, you can’t control how other’s drive around you, but you can buckle up to stay prepared for what may come down the road.
Stay off electronics: Reading a text, taking a call, or changing a song are all not worth risking your safety. Only use your device once you’ve pulled off to the side of the road. However, there are times where your navigation is on your phone. In these situations, pre-enter the address before you hit the road, mount your device so it’s stable, and if you must work with the GPS, only do so once pulled over to a safe location.
Minimize noise in the vehicle: Distracted driving has always been a leading cause of accidents, and noise is one of the main contributing factors. Make sure that whatever you’re listening to is set at a low volume, passengers are behaving respectfully, and every item in the vehicle is secure to avoid it rolling/banging around during the drive. There are also various modifications you can make to your vehicle to reduce cabin noise like undercoating your vehicle.
Being Prepared
Have a spare tire on hand: Remember, it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. As proactive as you might be, you can’t control the situation when you suddenly get a flat tire. In this scenario, having that spare tire will save you all that time stranded on the side of the road waiting for assistance.
Pack a first-aid kit: Should there be an unexpected injury, you want to be prepared. Whether it’s a scrape on the knee or tending to a serious injury before help arrives, the first-aid kit will come in handy. Even when you arrive at your destination, the first-aid kit will be close-by. In addition to a first-aid kit, don’t forget an EpiPen if anyone on the drive has an allergy.
We hope you enjoy this much-earned vacation and that the journey is as delightful as the destination. Stay safe out there this and every road trip. Go here to view the Summer Road Trip Series in its entirety.
