For many Americans, Independence Day is time for celebrating with friends and family, which often includes travel. In fact, AAA estimates 49 million Americans plan on making the Fourth of July a getaway weekend.
With an estimated 41.4 million Americans choosing to hit the road on July 3rd and July 4th, you can expect ample traffic and delays getting to your destination. But traffic shouldn’t be your only concern: July has the highest rate of drunk driving fatalities compared to any other month.
This Independence Day, prioritize safety. You can help make the most of your road trip by employing these four safety tips when hitting the road.
1. Get Good Sleep
Drowsy driving can be deadly. According injury experts, drowsy driving is just as- if not more- dangerous as drunk driving. “Drowsy driving is a widespread issue, contributing to an average of 328,000 car crashes every year in the U.S.,” note St. Louis car accident attorneys at The Floyd Law Firm, “Drivers who continue to underrate sleep and push themselves to the point of sleepiness will in most cases be responsible for any car accidents they cause.”
For the week leading up to your trip, get adequate sleep. Know your limits, especially if you’ll be on the road for long periods of time, and take frequent breaks to stop and rest. While coffee, energy drinks, and blasting the air conditioning may seem to help, the only solution for drowsy driving is sleep.
2. Make a Plan
Planning your trip in advance could mean shorter travel times. If you are embarking on a long road trip, consider packing ample snacks and water as well as planning out where you will be stopping for gas, food, and refreshments along the way.
Always check the weather and traffic estimates to help make the most appropriate travel plan for you and your fellow travelers. AAA has a super helpful travel forecast to plan the best time for your trip if you are headed to a major city.
3. Divert Distractions
Playing with your car controls, scrolling on Instagram, and reading your Kindle all have a time and place; on the road while you’re driving is not one of them. Before you start your car, set up a playlist or que a few podcasts to prevent tempting reasons to reach for your phone.
It is also important to remember that distracted driving is not limited to phones: distracting behaviors can include daydreaming, grooming, applying makeup, or rubbernecking. Limit distractions by pulling over if you need to do anything that requires you to take your eyes off the road.
4. Remain Calm
Although a long car trip, the heat, and traffic can be overwhelming, staying calm is key. Being positive and maintaining a calm demeanor will help you stay alert and prepared to handle anything you encounter on the road, from bad traffic accidents to road rage.
Consider utilizing breathing techniques or listening to a soothing playlist to help encourage a state of calm. If you are having a difficult time while on the road, consider pulling off and using a meditation app to help readjust your mindset.
Concluding Thoughts
If you are one of the 41.4 million drivers planning to hit the road before Independence Day, applying these four simple driving tips can make all the difference! Choosing to get adequate sleep, planing what you can, diverting distractions, and remaining calm can change a daunting drive into a pleasant experience. Remember to listen to your body, have fun, and drive safe this Independence Day!