Reducing the Risk of Injury on a Road Trip
You’ve been hitting the books pretty hard and you’re ready for a break. And even though the days are starting to get longer, you’ve still got a good case of cabin fever. But spring break is just around the corner. Time for a road trip south!
It’s the annual pilgrimage to warmer climates. If you’re taking your car south, there are a number of things you can do to reduce the risk of a motor vehicle accident. Here’s a checklist of items that will improve your chances of getting there and back safe and sound.
Make Certain Your Vehicle is Trip-Worthy
Whether you’ll be on the road two hours or ten, you want to know that your ride is ready for the road. Schedule an appointment with a mechanic you trust, tell him/her about your planned trip, and ask for an inspection of all important components, including brakes, steering wheel, drive train and all lights.
Ask the mechanic to check out your tires (including your spare). If the tread is wearing thin or there are other concerns, consider replacing your tires. It’s also a good time for a tune-up and an oil change, too. You’ll probably spend less on gas and you’ll have more peace of mind.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
You may not be able to predict a breakdown, but you can plan for one. Make certain you have all the items you’ll need, such as jumper cables, a working flashlight, emergency flares or cones, sealant for a leaking tire, and a first aid kit. Always bring a car charger for your phone and bring your road service card, if you have one.
Make Certain You Have a Way to Determine Where You Are and Where You’re Going
A GPS can make things easy, but it can also break down. You don’t necessarily want to rely on a single GPS…have another option in addition to the one on your phone. It’s also a good idea to have a good, old-fashioned paper map. You may never have to open it up, but you’ll be glad you had it if the rest of your technology breaks down.
Pace Yourself
Consider the journey to be as much a part of the trip as the destination. If you drive too many consecutive hours just to get there, you’ll likely crash and burn once you’re there. Split the trip up or take turns driving, so there’s always an alert driver behind the wheel.
Drive Defensively
It may be a cliché, but it’s still the best way to avoid an accident. Safe driving strategies include keeping a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you, refraining from using handheld devices while driving, operating your vehicle within the speed limit, avoiding drinking and driving, and always buckling your seat belt.
Contact Us
At the law office of Bailey & Galyen, we offer a free initial consultation to every client. For an appointment with an experienced Texas personal injury attorney, contact us by e-mail or call our offices at one of the convenient locations listed below. We will take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
