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Are you considering the open street, the liberty of a street journey, however end up hesitating attributable to security issues? You’re not alone. In response to the Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration, there have been over 36,000 deadly motorcar crashes in america in 2019 alone. So, the query in your thoughts is legitimate: 

Are street journeys harmful?

The quick reply is sure, street journeys carry inherent dangers, however they aren’t inherently harmful in case you take the proper precautions. For example, the chance of getting misplaced may be mitigated through the use of dependable GPS and offline maps. Crime in unfamiliar areas may be alleviated by way of analysis and staying in well-reviewed lodging. Well being dangers may be minimized by packing a well-stocked first-aid equipment.

I’ve been on numerous street journeys, navigating treacherous mountain roads, coping with automotive breakdowns, and every little thing in between. But, the rewards have far outweighed the dangers. On this article, we’ll delve into what makes street journeys probably harmful and how one can mitigate these dangers to make sure a protected and pleasant journey.

So, buckle up as we navigate the necessities of street journey security, from assessing your car’s situation to understanding the dangers of various terrains and climate situations.

What Makes Highway Journeys Probably Harmful?

Highway journeys provide the promise of journey and freedom, however in addition they include their very own set of dangers. Nothing in life is inherently risk-free. Understanding potential risks is step one in mitigating them and making certain a protected journey. Right here’s a rundown:

Getting Misplaced: It’s straightforward to lose your manner, particularly in areas with out cell service. Throughout my street journeys throughout America, my GPS has been a lifesaver. Nevertheless, a GPS glitch as soon as left us stranded on a small nation street, so now I all the time verify the map earlier than we hit the street.
Crime in Unfamiliar Areas: Totally different locations have various crime charges. Thorough analysis and native data can assist you keep away from dangerous areas throughout your travels. It’s also possible to belief your intestine in lots of conditions. If it doesn’t really feel proper, transfer on.
Potential Well being Dangers: Extended sitting and driving can result in well being points like again ache. I’ve pushed myself for too lengthy on a number of journeys, and my decrease again all the time regrets it.
Dwelling Safety Issues: An empty dwelling generally is a goal for burglars. Sensible dwelling safety methods may give you peace of thoughts throughout your journeys.
Driving Safely: Rushing and reckless driving improve the chance of accidents. By no means underestimate the worth of cautious and defensive driving.
Drowsy Driving: Fatigue can impair your driving abilities. Limiting driving to eight hours a day will assist you to keep alert on the street.
Climate-Associated Dangers: Dangerous climate could make driving hazardous. Pull over if the climate will get too dangerous, and all the time be ready with emergency provides in case of sudden storms.
Automobile Breakdowns: Mechanical failures can occur unexpectedly. My well-stocked restore equipment saved us a number of occasions when our Silverado had points.

For extra info, take a look at our weblog: How To Keep Secure On A Highway Journey.

Security Measures to Take In the course of the Journey

Embarking on a street journey is an exhilarating expertise, however it’s essential to prioritize security to make sure a clean journey. From taking common breaks to being ready for unpredictable climate, there are a number of measures you possibly can take to mitigate dangers.

Common Breaks: One important security measure is taking frequent breaks. In response to the Nationwide Sleep Basis, you need to cease no less than each two hours or 100 miles to relaxation and stretch. I’m the sort that wishes to get from level A to level B as shortly as attainable, however adhering to this rule can considerably cut back fatigue and enhance focus. For extra on this, learn our information on How Often Ought to You Take Breaks When Driving Lengthy Distances?
Emergency Package: One other essential part is having a well-stocked emergency equipment. Your equipment ought to embrace a first-aid equipment, water, non-perishable meals, and important instruments. I realized the onerous manner when my automotive broke down within the Carolinas that having an emergency equipment was a lifesaver. In the event you’re driving at evening, take a look at: 10 Security Suggestions To Put together You For Driving At Evening.
GPS and Backup Map: Your GPS app is your greatest pal on a street journey, however don’t solely depend on it. At all times have a bodily map as a backup. There have been a number of situations the place the GPS failed throughout my journeys, particularly in distant mountainous areas. Our article, How To Drive Safely In The Mountains, presents invaluable recommendation for these planning to drive by way of such terrains.
Climate Preparedness: Climate situations may be unpredictable, so it’s important to be ready for all eventualities. In the event you’re involved about driving in moist situations, our article 15 Recommendations on Drive within the Rain Safely is a must-read.

Is My Automotive Secure for a Lengthy Highway Journey?

Earlier than you hit the street, making certain your automotive is in high situation is essential. Begin with a complete inspection no less than two weeks earlier than your journey. Verify the tire strain, together with the spare, and your car’s fluids—oil, coolant, and brake fluid—ought to be at optimum ranges. A fast go to to a licensed mechanic can verify this and permit time for essential adjustments. 

Don’t overlook to examine the brakes; worn brake pads can cut back your stopping distance by as much as 10 ft at 60 mph. Lastly, guarantee your automotive battery is lower than three years outdated or has handed a latest load check. A failing battery is without doubt one of the main causes of breakdowns, particularly in excessive temperatures.

For extra on tire security, take a look at our article: How Far Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

How Far Is Too Far to Drive Each Day?

Figuring out how far to drive every day is essential for each your security and pleasure on the street. The American Car Affiliation (AAA) recommends limiting day by day driving to roughly 500 miles or about 8 hours behind the wheel. Nevertheless, this may range based mostly on elements like street situations and driver fatigue. Don’t attempt to push past your limits; it’s by no means price it.

Throughout one among my cross-country street journeys, I discovered that sticking to a 400-mile day by day restrict was extra sensible, particularly when navigating difficult terrains alongside the Pacific Coast Freeway. This allowed ample time to take breaks, benefit from the surroundings, and deal with surprising conditions.

For extra info, take a look at:  11 Useful Highway Security Suggestions For Each Lengthy Drive

How Far Ought to You Drive With out Stopping?

It’s not simply in regards to the distance, although; it’s additionally about how typically you cease. How Often Ought to You Take Breaks When Driving Lengthy Distances? recommends taking a 15-minute break each two hours or 100 miles to stretch, hydrate, and refocus. These breaks can cut back the chance of accidents considerably. You gained’t imagine the distinction these stretch breaks could make on the finish of the day.

What States to Keep away from on Highway Journeys?

When planning a street journey, you need to contemplate the protection of the states you’ll be traversing. Some states have greater crime charges than others. Highway situations additionally play a big function and range from state to state. Some states are infamous for his or her pothole-ridden roads, which may be hazardous. One other important consideration is the native local weather. Verify climate forecasts and have contingency plans in place.

Correct planning can considerably mitigate all dangers. This contains researching the most secure routes, understanding native legal guidelines and crime charges, and getting ready for varied climate situations. A well-thought-out plan may be your greatest protection towards the uncertainties of the street.

For an additional layer of safety, contemplate investing in journey insurance coverage that covers street trip-specific dangers. How To Select Journey Insurance coverage presents a complete information to choosing the proper coverage to your journey.

What To Do If One thing Goes Improper On The Highway Journey

Emergencies can occur, even with the best-laid plans. In case your automotive breaks down, your first step ought to be to drag over to a protected location, no less than 5-10 ft from the street. Flip in your hazard lights and arrange reflective triangles 30 ft behind your car to alert different drivers. Name for roadside help and wait inside your automotive with the doorways locked.

Authorized points can even come up, resembling visitors violations or accidents. In such circumstances, stay calm and speak to native authorities. Present all essential documentation, like your driver’s license, registration, and insurance coverage. It’s advisable to have a digital copy saved in your telephone as a backup.

Having a touch cam generally is a lifesaver in these conditions. It offers proof in case of an accident and can even monitor your automotive if you’re not round. Listed here are 10 Causes Why You Ought to Get A Sprint Cam to grasp its significance higher.

Wrapping It Up: Are Highway Journeys Harmful?

So, whereas street journeys include dangers, they aren’t inherently harmful endeavors if approached with warning and preparation. A well-planned journey can mitigate most dangers, turning what may very well be a hazardous journey into an journey of a lifetime. Drawing from my in depth expertise, together with a difficult but rewarding street journey throughout Europe, I can attest that the rewards of road-tripping far outweigh the dangers. 

So, don’t let concern maintain you again. Equip your self with the right data, instruments, and a touch of adventurous spirit.