The driver must ensure they are fully prepared for what’s ahead, and the vehicle should be in optimum working order. We will now discuss some of the key things you need to think about before setting off on your journey.
Whilst long car journeys may not be everyone’s favorite, they can be a necessity at times. When they are required for such things as holidays, however, they can be very exciting.
The driver must ensure they are fully prepared for what’s ahead, and the vehicle should be in optimum working order. We will now discuss some of the key things you need to think about before setting off on your journey.
Consider the legal aspect
Make sure the car is fully roadworthy and insured for the journey. Where breakdown cover is not included within the policy, it is advisable to secure this from a third party.
Las Vegas has been ranked 144th out of 200 when it comes to American cities for driver safety. One of the major factors in road crashes here relate to drunk drivers. Whilst no one plans to have an accident when they set off, it is important to be prepared. In this scenario, a driver would be wise to research a Las Vegas car accident attorney beforehand, in case their services were required. Such a professional would take the pressure off you while they seek a full compensation payment if another party was at fault. Twenty-four-hour availability may be a premium thing to look for too.
Think about safety
Cars should always have a fully stocked First Aid kit. This could include headache tablets and medication for stomach ailments. Additional items such as bandages, tissues, or medication for diabetics may also be applicable.
It’s also worth buying a reflective jacket, should you end up by the side of the road awaiting assistance.
Review the tires
Check the tread on these to ensure they are within the legal limit. Remember: their quality will affect your road grip. Should they be found wanting, replace them before the trip begins. Also, check the tire pressure in accordance with the car manual. Vehicles are more likely to have a blow out if the tire pressures are low.
If your car features a spare tire, make sure this has not perished yet or un-roadworthy. There should be an accompanying pump, car jack, and other related equipment should a tire need to be replaced. Remember to bring the wheel nut with you as well.
Think about top ups
There must be sufficient engine oil for the journey. If it went below the safety limit the engine could seize up, and the car could be written off. Check the oil indicator and add more if required, so the moving parts can remain sufficiently lubricated.
Other levels to check are the brake fluid and the coolant (otherwise known as antifreeze). The latter will protect the car from overheating during the long journey, especially if it is hot weather. Should the car engine remain on during long traffic queues, the coolant will also prove indispensable.
Check the windshield
Small cracks can be repaired using resin. Should they be bigger than 10mm the integrity of the windshield will be compromised, and replacement will be urgently needed. Make sure the screenwash levels are full too.
If the windshield wipers are old and have become perished, they will make things appear blurred should it rain heavily. They are not expensive and should be replaced before you go.
Assess the lights and bulbs
They need to be fully working, both inside and outside the vehicle. If necessary, involve someone else as you check the full and dipped beam, brake, and reverse lights.
Don’t forget the indicators and fog lights too.
Bring food and drink
These items will help quieten the kids if they become fractious during a long journey. This will also apply should you become stuck in a traffic queue.
Water is essential to ensure you remain hydrated. This will also maintain your ability to concentrate and respond to the road. Some of the best travel snacks are those that won’t melt in the heat as chocolate does. Buy plenty of energy or nut bars, and packets of biscuits too.
Sleep well beforehand
Science confirms that people need 7-8 hours of sleep a night in order to fully function. This will help you maintain focus during the journey and to respond better to any unexpected challenges.
If someone takes medication for allergies such as hay fever, they must make sure it does not make them drowsy for the journey. The same thing applies to antidepressants.
Plan the route in advance
It’s really wise to check a map beforehand and to even write down the route step by step. This applies even if someone is going to use a GPS. Also, it’s a great help when planning multiple stop routes with Apple maps. This applies even if someone is going to use a GPS. Satnavs can sometimes lose their signal (and therefore their location) and they don’t always recommend the best route. If you know someone who has traveled where you are going, ask them for their recommendation.
Image by ErikaWittlieb from Pixabay
It’s also wise to create a route that factors in regular breaks. This can include bathroom stops, and opportunities to eat and become refreshed. This can be key when there are kids on board and can protect you from falling asleep at the wheel.
Make sure you will stay awake
Driving along straight motorways for mile after mile can be boring and mind-numbing. It can also be hypnotic and tiring. For this reason, it’s good to stock up on all your favorite music, be it on a cd or your smartphone. These days audiobooks are becoming increasingly popular, and they can make long journeys feel shorter.
Some people invite friends to accompany them on long journeys. Once again it can make the journey feel more fun and less boring. Would-be travelers need to balance the need for mental stimulation and variety, alongside the importance of concentrating on driving.
Another way to remain alert on a car journey is not to eat too much. Anyone who consumes a hearty meal before they leave may feel sleepy very quickly.
When all the necessary checks and preparation have been made, you can simply look forward to your journey. There may be beautiful views on the way, and fun activities when you arrive.
Main photo by Dino Reichmuth on Unsplash
