With a three-day weekend, there are two things you can count on long weekend: traffic (and lots of it) as families hit the road to dine together, and a heavy police presence on the roads watching out for drivers who are impaired, distracted, behaving aggressively, or not wearing their seat belts.
1. PREPARE YOUR VEHICLE FOR THE DRIVE AHEAD
Top up your car’s windshield wiper fluid, check all tires properly and remember to travel with an emergency roadside safety kit.
2. ENSURE ALL CAR RELATED DOCUMENTS HANDY
No matter where you’re travelling this weekend, your car insurance coverage will follow you should something go wrong. Ensure you have your driver’s license, insurance documents, ownership and registration with you.
3. LISTEN TO WEATHER REPORTS
If there’s rain in the forecast (or worse), adjust your driving to fit the conditions. Foul weather and poor visibility requires you to drive at a slower speed than what’s posted. Posted speed limits designate the fastest speed at which you can safely travel in optimal road conditions. When roads—and the weather—are not optimal, slow down.
4. LOOK FOR LESS TRAVELED ROUTES
Major highways are everyone’s route of choice; try some of the smaller highways. In addition to less traffic, you’ll also be treated to some beautiful scenery as the leaves are beginning to change color.
OTHER TIPS:
5. Only head out on the long drive when you’re well rested.
6. Listen to traffic reports before you leave and while on the road.
7. Buckle up and make sure everyone in the car does too.
8. If there is a collision on route, give a good space to emergency vehicles, police, ambulance, fire trucks, or tow trucks with flashing lights on.
9. Be patient because there will likely be traffic. Driving aggressively—speeding and tailgating— will only improve your chances of, at best, getting a ticket and, at worst, causing a collision.
10. Don’t drive distracted. Put your phones on “Do Not Disturb”.
11. Budget time on your road trip for at least one rest stop to stretch your legs.
12. Leave a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you.
13. Always signal before you change lanes.
14. Don’t drive while alcohol or drug impaired.
**Information derived from online sources.