Every driver knows that the road is always a danger zone. No matter the time and date, you can never be truly safe since accidents can happen whether we like it or not. To minimize your risks for accidents and other unfortunate events, always implement safe driving practices.
Driving for a long trip is not similar to everyday driving. Most of the time, when we say everyday driving, it is your daily driving, running errands, and going to and from school or work. In short, these are mostly short distance traveling, and mostly, you get familiar with the route when you do it often. However, whenever you drive long distances, you are not so familiar with the routine. Your driving may not be as smooth and flawless as it is when you know everything about the road. Therefore, it is essential to practice extra caution whenever you are driving long distances to ensure your safety as well as the well-being of your passengers as well as your car. Here are some safety tips you may find helpful on your next long journey.
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No to Distracted Driving
When we say distracted driving, the list is long. Many drivers tend to multi-task whenever they are driving. Others take this time out of their busy schedule for eating, text, call, sign documents, and even put on makeup. Some try to check or look for something from their bags or from the car itself. But when we say distracted driving in general, it is anything you do which keeps your eye out of the road. Do not do this. One second of inattention from the street can cause an accident which you may regret for the rest of your life.
Secure Your Seatbelt Always
Don’t forget to buckle up. Seatbelts save thousands of lives yearly. Make sure to abide by the guidelines set to make sure you’re safe from trouble. Ensure that even your passengers are wearing their seatbelts the right way before driving.
Good Read: Seat Belts: How They Save Lives
No to Drunk Driving
It is natural for you to get tempted to drink especially when you are meeting family and friends during your visit or before your travel. However, you have to be careful when drunk driving. Alcohol alters the functioning of our senses and thus when you have a drink in your body, your attention, concentration, and feelings are affected. Aside from accidents, when you are caught drunk driving, you may get in serious trouble with the law, and it can change your entire life. Thus, if it already happened to you while passing through Denver, you better find the best DUI Defense Denver to help you out. Having a lawyer can significantly lessen the stress of being caught for DUI.
Remember. alcohol intoxication is one of the most common causes of vehicular accidents. If you can’t help but drink a cocktail or two, it would be best to hail a cab or ask a friend who’s not intoxicated to drive for you. If ever you get in trouble for driving while under the influence of alcohol, make sure to call your trusted DUI Defense Denver asap.
No Running on Red Lights
One of the things you should never do is to try and run on a red light. No matter how you are in a hurry, be patient to wait for the light to change. Some also take chances when they see that there is no other car or pedestrian on sight. However, it is best to wait a minute for the light to turn green to be sure you are safe from accidents.
No to Over Speeding
Speeding won’t only cost you a ticket, but can also cause collisions or other accidents as well. Even if you’re running late or has an emergency to attend to, remember to drive within the speed limit to avoid risking yourself of getting hurt instead of arriving on your destination.
Even when there is no traffic, and the road is clear, do not go over the set speed limit of the area. The deadline is set for a particular reason, to avoid an accident. Always stay within limit since you may not know what lies ahead on the road. When you follow the border, it is easier for you to break in case of unprecedented encounters.
Good read: 10 Must-Do Things to Prepare for an Awesome Road Trip
Do Vehicle Maintenance, Especially Before Long Travels
Car maintenance is the secret in prolonging the life of your vehicle. Before any problems get worse, having your car maintained it would avoid future car troubles. Make sure to check on your car before leaving for a long trip, and to take it to an experienced mechanic for regular maintenance.
Be a Defensive Driver
Defensive Driving a safe driving practice wherein the driver anticipates situations while keeping their cool no matter the situation may be. In a nutshell, a defensive driver is alert, able to keep his cool, respects other drivers, practices safe driving, and expects that drivers sometimes make mistakes, so he is ready to act and defend himself.
Avoid Cell Phone Use
Cell phones are the worst distractions for the driver. According to statistics, 9 out of 10 drivers are using their phones while driving, causing crashes, damages to property, injuries, and even deaths. If you really need to use your phone, make sure to stop and pull over on a safe side of the road before using it.
Don’t Drive When You’re Tired
One would be surprised how common it is for drivers to fall asleep when driving. So, avoid driving when you’re sick and sleep-deprived. If you feel drowsy while driving, take a break, drink a cup of coffee, or even take a short nap.
Take the High Road
There are drivers on the road who will test your patience. Try to keep your cool, ignore their speeches and challenges, and avoid going on verbal exchanges.
It’s best to anticipate that accidents can happen to anyone – even to the best and careful drivers. Always keep your eye open and remember to keep this list in mind if you want a safe trip ahead of you.