Spring break is here and while it’s certainly great news for students, it is also the time to be extra cautious and keep certain things in mind to ensure safe travel. After all, making sure everyone stays safe is a crucial part of having a good time during spring break. Listed below are a few tips on what you should know when you are traveling long distances by car this year:
Give Your Car a Safety Checkup
Before you head out, make sure that your car is in good running order. Check the air pressure of your tires and top off all fluid levels. It is important to ensure that the tires have good tread. Apart from this, you should also have the brakes checked, particularly if you haven’t replaced them in a long time. Lastly, check other key components of your vehicle, e.g. lights, indicators, horn, etc. to make sure they are working as intended. Performing these safety checks will give you peace of mind and ensure that your spring break trip is hassle-free.
Always Wear a Seatbelt
This is extremely important. According to statistics, thousands of people are killed in road accidents every year and a majority of them are ones that don’t wear seatbelts. Unfortunately, even with this knowledge, many drivers still don’t wear them. To ensure maximum safety, the driver and all passengers should “Buckle Up”.
No Drinking and Driving
Drunk driving is one of the biggest causes of road accidents and spring break trips often involve a lot of alcohol. So, avoid drinking and driving. In addition to this, you should also avoid driving under the influence of any recreational drugs or prescription medications that make you drowsy.
Don’t Drive Distracted
Many studies have shown that distracted driving is more dangerous than drunk driving. Some of the most common distractions include using a cell phone for calling or texting, eating, or using a navigation system while driving, etc. Such distractions can endanger the driver as well as the passengers.
Avoid Late-Night Driving and Park in Safe, Well-Lit Areas
Nighttime can be a dangerous time to drive. Not only is it hard to see in the dark, but it is also the time when drowsiness and fatigue set in, posing considerable risks as your reaction time and concentration are impaired. If you have to travel at night, it is recommended that you share driving and rotate frequently with your friends. Also, when you park the vehicle, make sure it’s in a well-lit, safe area.
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Car Accident Attorneys serving Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
No matter which destination you choose for spring break, remember to follow these safe driving guidelines. If you have been injured in a car accident on spring break, you should discuss your legal options with an experienced car accident attorney. Contact the trusted attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC today for a free consultation (703) 560-0700.
References
https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/seat-belts
https://freedomgeneral.com/blog/vehicle-safety-checklist-how-safe-is-your-car/
