Cross-country road trips are a classic way to explore the country and make memories with friends and family. The time spent together in the car can lead to great conversation and introduction of new ideas, all while you get to know your fellow travelers better. But if not properly planned, your cross-country road trip can take a dangerous turn.
Road trips are fun but dangerous. It’s important to be safe, especially when you’re out of your hometown and far from any police officers or hospitals if anything happens. Other than making sure everyone in the car is sober, it’s also important to plan and prepare for any dangerous situations that might come up.
To help you stay safe while traveling cross-country, here are some tips on how to keep the trip enjoyable and the group out of harm’s way:
Stay sober
No one should be driving if their blood alcohol level is above .08%. Driving under the influence can lead to serious injuries or even death in the event of an accident. If someone does decide to drive after drinking, they must have a sober person in the car with them who isn’t intoxicated themselves.
Take Everyone’s Contact Number
Make sure everyone knows each other’s phone numbers before setting out on your journey. If anything happens along the way like a flat tire or a medical emergency, it’s important to call for help right away. The best way to ensure everyone makes it out safely is if they know your number and can contact you when necessary.
Have an Escape Plan
One of the most dangerous situations on a road trip is when someone accidentally locks their keys in the car. If this happens, have an escape plan every time before getting out of the vehicle: break a window with a rock if necessary and grab items like jumper cables and extra clothes that will be helpful during the waiting period.
Take A Break
Don’t drive your entire trip without stopping if you’re feeling tired. Driving when exhausted puts everyone in the vehicle at serious risk of crashing due to lack of focus from not getting enough sleep or being too fatigued from driving long hours. It’s always important to take breaks whether it’s every two hours or overnight whenever possible,
Plan Ahead for Big Cities
If you’re visiting big cities like New York, Chicago, or Miami on your road trip, then keep in mind that there are heavy traffic and parking fees can be expensive. If possible, avoid driving in these places altogether by taking public transportation or using ride-sharing services.
Stay Up-to-Date with Road Conditions
When possible, check the road conditions before you head out on your journey to ensure that what lies ahead is clear of any accidents or hazards. You might even want to take an alternate route if there’s construction work blocking off the roads along your planned path. It’s also important to put new windshield wipers on your car before setting out so you can see clearly while driving in bad weather conditions.
Car Accidents
Car accidents are common with road trips and are a leading cause of death in young adults. Even if you’re on the road with an experienced driver, car accidents caused by human error or faulty equipment can happen at any time.
The best way to protect yourself is by wearing a seat belt at all times. If you don’t have one, it’s time for an upgrade or car replacement. You can also invest in a car dashcam that will record everything that happens while driving and might be useful in the event of an accident later on.
If your car does get damaged during the trip, make sure to contact your vehicle insurance company as soon as possible to file a claim. Hire a car accident injury attorney to help you with any legal issues related to the accident and to get a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
Always Have Emergency Car Kits Handy
Your emergency car kits should include items like jumper cables, flares, first aid kits, and flashlights. You’ll find that most of these things are not included in regular glove compartments so keep them in an easily accessible place that everyone knows where to find them if necessary. Don’t forget to check all your car’s tires either before driving through unfamiliar areas; it’s no fun having a flat tire halfway across the
Pack Enough Food and Water for Everyone
Make sure you have enough food and water with you so everyone stays energized no matter how long you’ll be on the road. You never know when somewhere might run out of basic amenities like these so it’s important to always be prepared.
Don’t let these tips scare you from enjoying your cross-country road trip! If anything ever happens, just remember that being together as a group will help ease up any tension and make the road back home much easier to travel.