As we head into the holiday season, many of us will drive far. Here are some tips to get you there and back safely.
- Make sure you get enough rest the night before your trip. Avoid leaving early if you did not get enough sleep.
- If you can, avoid leaving early in general. Some road users travel at night in an attempt to avoid law enforcement which creates another potential safety hazard for other drivers.
- Know your limits. If you have an eight-hour trip ahead of you but know that five hours is the most you can safely do in one day, then stay overnight in a hotel.
- Eat healthy food. Junk food will not maintain the energy levels you need. Eat protein such as those found in eggs and healthy fats which are found in peanuts.
- Make a point to stay hydrated while driving and drink plenty of water.
- Position the food and water so that it is easy to grab with minimal distraction and as few spills as possible.
- Plan your stops for every two hours or so – you will need the toilet from your rehydrating. Do not skip a stop with promises of stopping at the next one – you may find that it’s even farther away than you thought.
- Make sure your car is well-maintained. Get your car checked out before leaving to avoid getting stranded next to the road, alone, at night, far from anywhere.
- Keep loved one updated on your progress through regular messages.
