Staying Safe On Your Next Cross Country Road Trip

Are you planning a road trip with friends or family?

If so, getting there is half the fun. While you may have the itinerary all planned out for where you’ll be stopping at and what you’ll be doing once you’ve reached your destination, what about safety? Trip safety while you’re driving and arriving at each location is vital to having a successful vacation.

If you’re planning on venturing off the main trail a little bit, you’ll also have to be prepared for that. Here are a few things to plan ahead in regards to your overall safety while you venture away.

Having The Right Auto Insurance 

Getting behind the wheel is a lot of responsibility. Not only are you in control of how you handle your vehicle and keep your passengers safe, but you are responsible for the safety of others on the road. No one can predict when an accident will happen, or maybe you’ve had a few legal problems in regards to your driving in the past. This can make it harder for you to obtain auto insurance.

Be sure to stay legal. Seek out a reputable SR22 insurance carrier. They specialize in helping people who are high risk, who maybe had a DUI or several traffic violations in the past. This will allow you to stay legal as you cross state lines and hit the open road. It also makes sure that you are properly covered should you get pulled over or the inevitable happens and you have a car accident.

Check The Weather Thoroughly

Before hitting the road, consider what the weather conditions will be like along the way. Just because the weather is perfect when you embark on your trip, doesn’t mean it will be good as you continue driving. Driving through mountains or low-lying areas can make it more susceptible to face foggy conditions, which will limit your visual ability and depth perception.

Use a weather app to check the weather where you’ll be traveling through. This will allow you to adjust your trip accordingly and promote a safer, more effective driving experience. Also, check for traffic backups. This can be done through the U.S. Department of Transportation website in the state that you’ll be going through. From there, you’ll be able to see pre-planned construction work going on as well as any detours that you are recommended to take. This can save you time and gas money in advance.

Tell Someone Where You’re Going 

Whether you are staying on the main road or highway throughout your trip, you should still let someone not going with you know where you’re heading to. Because cell phone coverage can be impaired in certain areas, especially while driving, it’s important that someone knows where to look for you and your party, should you not arrive when you’re supposed to. If you’re planning a backcountry hiking or camping trip, you should definitely let someone know exactly where you’ll be heading. This is because severe weather conditions can negatively impact your activities, and even put you in danger. Letting a park ranger know your information and also telling someone back at home is very important for optimal safety.

Pack Some Safety Gear

Making sure you have your clothes, toiletries and other essential is something at the top of your to-do list before you leave on your trip. While these things are important, so is some essential safety gear to have in your car. Here are just a few suggestions:

• Keep a first aid kit in your glove box.
• Pack a flashlight and a flair gun in case you breakdown alongside the road.
• Have plenty of water and non-perishable food on hand.
• Bring plenty of charged backup batteries for your phone and flashlight.
• List of emergency contacts in case you lose your phone and numbers.
• A paper map of the area you’ll be traveling through.

Staying safe means being prepared by packing your car with the essentials should you wind up being lost or unable to utilize your cell phone.

Safety is important for your entire group as you venture out into the world. Making sure you’re insurance has the right coverage and you are well prepared for any emergency is the best way to ease any worries.

So, stay safe on your next cross-country road trip.