Top Safety Tips for Staying Safe on the Road

There are few things I love more than taking a road trip. I love having the ability to go wherever I want without needing to get public transport, and it’s so fun when you turn off somewhere random and find a great place you would never have found if you had just stuck to the highways.

I like to be the main driver though, since I get sick in the backseat and bored in the front passenger seat. I’ve been driving since I was 14 years old and mum took me out to the country for my first lesson (she grew up on a farm and that was normal), and I’ve driven all over the world, switching between manual and automatic cars and the right and left side of the road.

Here are my top safety tips for staying safe on the road:

Check your car

Before driving, walk around the outside of your car. Check your tyre pressure and tread, along with petrol, water, oil, and brake fluid. Make sure all of your lights and indicators are working, check your horn, and ensure you don’t have any oil leaking under your car.

Get enough sleep

While I need more coffee than the average person, I also know that if I’m going to be driving the next day I need to have a great night of sleep. This is particularly true for long drives, but applies to short drives as well- especially if you haven’t driven in a while or you’re super tired. When you’re well rested, it’ll be less likely that your attention will wander, and you can also enjoy your trip much more.

Take enough breaks

While this is another good idea for long drives, I’ve sometimes had to do it on short drives as well- particularly on hot days if I’m not feeling all that alert. Pull over, walk around the car, grab a snack or a cup of coffee, or take a nice walk down the road. I like to give myself an extra hour of driving time, so I know I can make at least a few stops along the way.

Pull all the way over

Sometimes we need to pull over quickly, but it’s important that you pull all the way over and move your car off the road if possible. Don’t park in the breakdown lane or on the shoulder unless it’s an emergency, and always ask yourself if oncoming drivers will be able to see your car.

Don’t drink and drive

This seems obvious. But while most people know that they can’t get drunk and get behind a wheel, some people think nothing of having a beer or two and then driving. Sure, you may be under the legal limit, but if you’re already tired, stressed, or driving somewhere new, alcohol is not a good idea. Not only will it slow your reaction time, but you’re likely to become sleepy- something that’s not ok if you’re behind the wheel.

If you’ve had a road traffic accident and would like to speak to a lawyer, get in touch with Slater & Gordon Solicitors today.