Going on a road trip with friends or family can be so much fun and help you to create some memories that will last a lifetime. That being said, there are many mistakes that drivers make before going on road trips, and you should avoid them.

We have compiled a list of the most common mistakes here so you can make sure you avoid them and have the smoothest trip imaginable:

 

Not Checking The Weather

Checking the weather before you set off on a road trip is absolutely key to making sure you don’t have a bad time. The weather isn’t always right, but if you look at it before you set off you have a much better chance of a smooth journey. Nobody wants to have to drive when rain is pelting the windscreen so hard that you can barely see, so make sure you double check this won’t be the case. 

Not Planning The Route Carefully

Planning your route carefully in advance ensures you have alleviated every possible anxiety that you could have when it’s time to set off. Make sure you look at whether there are any issues or delays on your route, and make sure you even have options to go a different way should something happen – you can set your satnav to do this automatically. If it’s a particularly long journey, you should also make sure you plan any rest stops for toilet breaks and snacks – or even just to stretch your legs. 

 

Not Knowing What To Do In An Accident

One of the biggest mistakes many drivers make before going on a road trip is failing to prepare for an accident. While nobody plans to be involved in an accident, it’s important to know what to do if one happens. One of the first things you should do after an accident is to call 911 and request emergency assistance. They will then advise you on what to do until help arrives. After the accident has been cleared up and you’re free to go, you may want to claim compensation for your injuries. Dennis Hernandez, a personal injury lawyer, provides information for those seeking legal counsel on what to do after an accident. This information will prove useful for anyone involved in an accident, so be sure to familiarize yourself with it before taking any long trips.

 

Waiting To Fill Up The Car

Waiting to fill up the car could end in disaster. It’s not wise to think in worst case scenarios 24/7, but what if the station is closed, or the pump you need is out of order? What if you take a wrong turn and have a while to go before you can fill up again, and the fuel gauge slowly continues to make its way downwards? You’d be pretty panicked, and it’s hard to keep your emotions in check when you feel panicked! Fill up the car before you go and you’ll save yourself a ton of hassle. 

 

Not Getting Enough Sleep

Not getting enough sleep is one of the worst things you can do before you set off on a long drive. Make sure you’ve had plenty of sleep, and even plan for a nap stop if you might need one. Don’t try to push through, or you could end up falling asleep at the wheel – no matter how unlikely you believe this is. Being tired can be just as bad as having a drink – and make sure you don’t do that either. You don’t want to have to think about contacting your 2nd dui lawyer when you’re supposed to be enjoying your trip. 

 

Not Buying Suppliers Before You Set Off 

Make sure you have all you need before you set off, especially water, non perishable snacks, a phone charger, and emergency phone numbers written down. It will also benefit you to have things like a torch and high vis vest! 

 

Forgetting To Give The Car The Once Over 

Before you travel, check everything over to ensure safe tyres and that there are no warning lights on the dash. It could save you a world of hassle. 

 

Thanks for reading and y’all stay dandy.

-Diego

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