There’s always risks involved with driving — whether you take yourself to work during rush hour or pack up for a long road trip with your family. But when you set out for longer drives and have a more crowded vehicle, there are safety measures you can take ahead of time.
In fact, there are ways you can prep your vehicle, prep your family and decisions you can make on the road that may reduce the chance of a serious accident.
Gearing up your vehicle
When you plan a road trip or longer drive, it’s essential to check if your car needs any maintenance. The warmer months in Georgia can take a toll on your vehicle, so topping off all fluids and oils that are running low can save you from having to receive emergency help on the side of the road.
Specifically, not having the right amount of coolant can cause your car to overheat. Plus, noting and adjusting the pressure in each tire as needed can prevent the tires from expanding and bursting mid-drive.
Bringing along your family
Going behind the wheel with a crowd can create more opportunity for distractions. You can try and minimize these distractions by packing ample snacks, providing age-appropriate activities for your children and planning out strategic pit stops for everyone to stretch and use the bathroom. This might lessen the pleads to stop for food or having to frantically find a bathroom on an unfamiliar highway with spaced out exits.
Speaking of unfamiliar roads, you might find it useful to have whoever is in the passenger seat help navigate and control the radio, so you can stay focused on the road. And, if there are other licensed drivers in your family, then you can switch off throughout the day to reduce the potential of drowsy or inattentive driving.
Taking the whole family out for a day trip or cross-country journey should be a positive experience. So, it’s important to do all you can to protect your loved ones from possible hazards.