Interesting News and TipsNotice

Planning a Long Drive: How to Stay Safe on the Roads

By in Interesting News and Tips, Notice

Getting ready to hit the road for your next holiday?

 

Planning a Long Drive? Make sure that it’s a fun and safe drive no matter how long it takes to get there. Check out our top tips on how to stay safe.

1. Wear Your Seatbelts

It may seem like a no-brainer, but wearing your seatbelt can reduce the risk of injury or death by up to 50 percent. Check everyone is buckled up before you even get going!

2. Car Roadworthy?

Driving long distances can really put a strain on your car. If you want to trust that it can get you from A to B make sure you get a service at your local garage. They’ll check things such as: tyre pressure, tyre tread, oil levels, wiper blades and fluid levels. There’s less likelihood of needing roadside assistance or having an accident if your car is in good working order.

3. DIY Mechanic Skills

Following on from this it’s a good idea to have a few DIY mechanic skills up your sleeve before you hit the road. Knowing how to add air to tyres, how to change a tyre and replace wiper blades can make life a lot easier if you can do this yourself whilst on the road.

4. Have an Emergency Kit

If you’re driving long distances, an emergency kit is an essential item to have in the car. Include things such as basic first aid items:

  • Band-Aids,
  • Antiseptic cream,
  • Antihistamine,
  • Bandages etc.

Also include household items like:

  • A torch,
  • Water bottles,
  • Canned food,
  • A can opener,
  • Hand sanitiser,
  • Toilet paper,
  • A portable radio and
  • A phone charger.

For car maintenance, include:

  • An old towel (in case you need to get under the car),
  • Jumper leads, and a
  • Multi-purpose tool.

5. Driver Distractions

A number one cause of accidents on the road is distracted drivers. This can be anything from kids making a racket in the back seat, to feeling drowsy and taking your eyes off the road for a split second. Make sure your kids have enough toys and games to entertain them so they don’t start trying to get your attention. If they do need something, pull over and stop safely, don’t try and assist them from the driver’s seat.

6. Stay Alert

A lot of our roads in Australia are extremely long with intermittent towns and facilities, so make sure you know where you can fill up with petrol, and can stay for the night. When driving plan to have rest stops every two hours, typically rest areas are every 80-100 km. To stay alert here are some further tips:

  • Travel at a normal hour, not at 3am in the morning
  • Go to bed early the night before you travel
  • Don’t drink or take sleep inducing medicines
  • Keep the car well ventilated and cool
  • Avoid coffee and soft drinks

Planning a Long Drive

Planning a trip away but don’t like the thought of driving there? We specialise in interstate car transport so you can enjoy a quick flight, rather than a long drive. Contact Door to Door Car Carrying today to find out how we could help you!