Driving long distance? Here’s what you shouldn’t do
Are you planning a long-distance journey? Whether it's for work or for fun, driving for long periods can certainly take its toll unless you do some adequate planning first.
There’s a lot to consider, such as what you should pack, who you’re going to drive with, how you’re going to stay awake, all whilst keeping road safety tips in mind. The last thing you want is to find yourself caught up in a car accident.
But what about all the things you shouldn’t do whilst you’re driving long distance? We’ll take a look at them here.
Fail to plan your route
You might be intending to use online maps or a GPS to guide you through your journey, which is fine. However, if you're driving long distances then you should consider planning your trip thoroughly, so you can take regular breaks, stop and get food and stretch your legs. You should also ensure that your maps are available offline, and also have a hard copy just in case!
Driving whilst tired
Driving whilst you’re feeling tired is a lethal combination. You need to have your wits about you whilst driving, especially if you’re on roads you’re not familiar with or if you’re driving at night.
Falling asleep at the wheel could mean drifting into another lane, crashing your vehicle or even killing yourself or someone else!
Not planning for an emergency
No one likes to think that the worst will happen, however it makes sense to plan for one. Just in case. If you’re hitting the road for an extended period of time, then you’re going to need some
emergency equipment that will help get you out of a jam.
- Jump leads
- A spare tyre
- A car jack
- A spare phone – with emergency numbers
- A first aid kit
- Food/water/blankets
Putting your feet up on the dashboard
If you’re driving with a friend and you’re taking it in turns, make sure both of you know the dangers of putting your feet up on the dashboard. If you do have a crash, then the airbag will be deployed, sending your legs and knees straight back into your face and skull. Not recommended.
Eating bad food
Crisps, chips, chocolate and fast food - they’re all great treats to enjoy from time to time, but when you’re on the road you should try to balance your diet a little more. Choose foods that give you energy and keep you from feeling sluggish and tired. You should also remember to drink plenty of water!
Final thoughts…
Planning your road trip carefully will ensure that you reach your destination safely. So take your time and enjoy the planning process!