Planning a long road trip? Take note of this safety tops thus avoiding traffic, saving money, and landing safe (and staying awake!) on the road trip.
1. Before engaging in any kind of long drive, always get enough rest and sleep and eat food before you start. Highly caffeinated beverages are not recommended at this time as you may initially feel more alert, but the effects can fade with time, and your attention may wander although you still awake.
2. Pull over and take short breaks every couple of hours, even if you are not sleepy. Get a snack, get some fresh air, and stretch your legs by taking a walk around. If necessary, take a quick nap.
3. If you are with another licensed driver, share the driving responsibilities with him/her. This will make you to keep an eye on each other while driving and also allow you to nap without losing time. However if you’re driving alone, turn on the radio or put on some music, and keep your window open. Please refrain from using your cruise control if you’re driving alone; having to concentrate on maintaining your speed can keep you awake.
4. In case you need to pull over, move your car off the road. Never pull over on the shoulder or in the breakdown lane for any reason except its an emergency.
5. Be familiar with the laws along your route regarding cell phone use while driving. While it may be legal practice in one place, it may be illegal in another, and ignorance is not typically an acceptable excuse for a violation. However, note here that even if it’s legal to talk on a cell phone, it’s usually safest to use a hands-free device.
6. Never drink any alcoholic beverage before your trip. This is because even if you do not become intoxicated from one beer, you will eventually become sleepy.
7. Observe the skies, and if you can, plan a test ride around inclement weather. A minor detour could actually wind up saving you major time.
http://www.automobileglobe.com/19-driving-safety-tips-you-should-know/

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