Driving on vacation can be a great way to explore new places and sights, but it’s important to stay safe while you’re out on the road. To help ensure a safe journey, here are some tips for safe driving on vacation:
Plan Ahead: Before you hit the road, take time to plan your route and familiarize yourself with directions so you don’t get lost while you’re away. Also make sure any necessary vehicle maintenance is taken care of before you leave, such as checking oil levels, tire pressure, and fluids.
Avoid Distractions: Keep your full attention on the road by avoiding distractions such as cell phones, GPS systems, and eating or drinking while driving. If possible, designate someone in the car who can answer calls and texts for you.
Drive at Non-Peak Times: Whenever possible, avoid traveling during rush hour or other busy times. This will reduce the amount of traffic on the road and help create a safer driving environment.
Be Cautious: Pause for an extra beat at traffic lights and stop signs, and proceed cautiously, keeping an eye on other drivers.
Check the Condition of Your Vehicle for Safe Driving
1. Check and clean your windscreen wipers.
2. Check your headlights.
3. Check your windscreen.
4. Check the condition and pressure of your tires.
5. Check your radiator.
6. Check your vehicle’s liquids
Safe Driving Plan for Unexpected Delays
1. Plan your route in advance and allow for extra time in case of delays.
2. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition before setting off.
3. Get a good night’s sleep before starting out on your journey.
4. Buckle up, including all passengers.
5. Drive defensively and be aware of other motorists and potential hazards on the road.
6. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for changing conditions.
7. Pack for a disaster, including a first-aid kit, food and water, and a flashlight.
8. Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information from the government before traveling abroad.
Make Sure Everyone is Buckled Up in the Car
Ensure that everyone else in your vehicle is buckled up in age- and size-appropriate car seats, booster seats, or seat belts before you start driving. You should also make sure that you are wearing your seat belt correctly.
Before heading out on any road trip, it’s always a good idea to give your car a once-over to make sure everything is in working order. This means checking the oil level and tire pressure, as well as making sure all the lights are working. If anything doesn’t seem right, it’s best to get it fixed before hitting the road.
One of the best ways to stay safe on the roads is to simply drive at safe speeds.
Stay Focused on the Road and Limit Distractions
Driving is a demanding activity that requires your full attention to many things at the same time. The best way to avoid being involved in a distracted driving crash is to simply not do it yourself. Put your phone away before you start driving, and focus on the road. If something comes up, pull off the road when it’s safe to do so, and use the phone then. Focus on driving and make that your top priority. Do not let anything take your attention from the roads and always actively scan the road ahead, checking for potential hazards.
Drive Attentively. Avoid the three most common distractions: cell phones, CDs, and coffee. Drive Defensively. Aggressive drivers take unnecessary risks and are more likely to be involved in crashes. Be aware of aggressive drivers around you, and do not engage them. If someone is driving aggressively, get out of their way if possible, and do not respond to their actions with aggression of your own.
Follow All Posted Speed Limits and Traffic Signs
You should always obey the posted speed limit and be aware of your surroundings while driving. Be sure to complete stop at stop signs, and look for other drivers and pedestrians before proceeding. Obey all street signs and never turn down a one-way street or make an illegal turn on red.
Take Regular Breaks During Long Drives for Safe Driving
You should take a break every 2 hours and don’t drive for more than 8–10 hours per day. We recommend you plan which rest areas and driver reviver sites you will pull into along the way to stay fresh and alert. Taking regular breaks will help you avoid fatigue and maintain focus on the road.
Plan Your Driving Route in Advance and Bring a Map or GPS Device
Check out the best driving route planners for every use case. Get the shortest routes and spend less time behind the wheel.
Carry an atlas or detailed regional road maps as backups. Stash some cash in your wallet before you head out on your road trip. You never know when you’ll need it.
The most distracting things you can do are program your GPS, send a text message, search for music, and use your phone. Be safe—program your route before setting off, plug your destination into your GPS, and plan your stops. Also, be sure to bring an up-to-date paper map. Although they’re not as compact as GPS devices or apps, paper maps offer a broader view of the area and can be used even if there’s no cell service or data reception.
Be Aware of Different Driving Laws in Other Countries
Most countries gladly allow tourists and other visitors to drive in their lands, and cars and other types of vehicles are available for rent at airports. However, it is important to be aware of the different driving laws that may be in place in the country or state you are visiting. Depending on where you are from, these laws are very different from others.
For example, in Belgium, it is illegal to resist rightful arrest, and if you do so you will be fined. In Canada, it is important to know that the rules of the road are slightly different than in other countries. In Italy, foreign visitors who get behind the wheel must carry an IDP. And in the US, all drivers must abide by the same basic rules of driving that are true for all states.
Knowing the traffic laws for any new place you’re visiting is crucial to having a safe and enjoyable trip.
Avoid Driving at Night for Safe Driving
Driving at night can be a daunting experience for many people. The reduced visibility and increased fatigue levels can lead to more dangerous driving conditions than during the day. To stay safe on the roads, it is best to avoid driving at night if possible.
If you do need to drive in the dark, there are some important tips to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure your car is in good condition and your headlights are working properly. You should also dim your lights for oncoming traffic, and watch out for those with their high beams on. Make sure you’re well-rested before getting behind the wheel and take regular breaks throughout the journey. Clean your mirrors and stay alert so you can react quickly to any changes in the road ahead.
Remember that driving at night can increase fatigue levels and reduce visibility, so it is always best to take as many precautions as possible when traveling after dark. Avoid driving at night if possible; if not, make sure you take all necessary measures to ensure your safety.
Safe Driving: Research Rest Areas Ahead of Time
When you’re planning a road trip, make sure to research the rest areas in advance. This will help you find the safest places to stop along the way. If there aren’t any appealing options, plan stops ahead of time so you can avoid potential danger.
It’s also a good idea to make a safe driving plan before your trip. Build time into your trip schedule to stop for food, rest breaks, phone calls, or other business. And adjust your driving habits to match the conditions of the road—never drive more than 100 miles at a time.
Finally, be sure to get plenty of rest before driving. This will help you stay alert and focused on the road. Look ahead while you’re driving to see what is coming up, and keep a comfortable distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
