In America, motor vehicle collisions are the third leading cause of death. Auto accidents are also a major cause of injuries. Each time you get into your car, there are many factors that can determine whether you make it to your destination safely or not. 

Tips to Stay Safe on the Road 

Unfortunately, even if you’re a careful driver, most of the factors that can cause an accident will be out of your control. Since you cannot prevent an accident that’s caused by the negligence of another driver, inclement weather, or poor road conditions, you must be prepared and take certain precautions that can reduce your risk of being involved in an auto accident. 

Here are some safety tips you can follow that can prevent an accident or injuries and keep you safe on the road. 

Prepare Your Vehicle 

Always ensure your vehicle is prepared for travel. Your vehicle is your home away from home. Make sure you plan ahead and inspect your vehicle before a long trip. 

Check the following:

• Wiper fluid 
• Wiper blades
• Signals 
• Lights 
• Filters, hoses, caps, belts
• Brakes
• Spare tire
• Tire pressure
• Oil 
• Coolant 

Make Sure You’re Prepared to Drive

Keep in mind, you need to be just as ready to travel as your vehicle. Get a good night’s rest before your trip. Check your phone range and be sure you can reach an emergency operator from wherever you’re traveling. Before your trip, check the weather forecast and become familiar with the route you’ll be traveling. 

Pack your vehicle with the following supplies:

• Waterproof matches
• Something for traction, such as chains, if you’re traveling during the winter
• Cutting tool and tool kit 
• Travel maps 
• Flares
• Jumper cables
• Blankets
• Food and water
• First aid kit 

Check Hotels in the Area 

If you’re planning to stop for some overnight rest, make it easier on you and your family by doing the following:

Map out hotels 

Make reservations for the night ahead of time. 

If you’re waiting until you’re on the road to get a room for the night, be sure it’s in the early afternoon when you place the call. Most motels and hotels fill up quickly later in the day. 

Monitor Your Mileage

With gas prices continuing to rise, you may find yourself spending less time traveling. 

Here are some helpful ways you can save on gas and avoid running out while you’re on the road:

• Slow your acceleration
• Purchase your gas during the coolest time of day since gas is densest at this time. 
• Try maintaining moderate speeds. If you’re traveling 60 MPH you can save around 20% more gas compared to traveling 15 miles over. 
• When you’re traveling at higher speeds keep the windows closed. With your windows open you can reduce your mileage by as much as 10%. 
• Avoid rough roads, which can decrease gas mileage by more than 28%. 
• You can cool down an automatic transmission by placing it in neutral at traffic standstills or at long traffic lights. 
• Remove any unneeded items from your vehicle. Excess weight can reduce gas mileage. 
• Before your trip, know the estimated cost. 

Be Alert and Safe When Traveling

The last tip for road safety is always remaining alert and safe while you’re driving. Take the following into consideration to avoid a serious emergency or accident on the road:

• If you feel tired, try rolling down the windows or listening to music 
• Take breaks when you feel your attention start to wander. Stretch your legs and walk around. 
• Share driving responsibilities with someone else to avoid falling asleep at the wheel or having to pull over to the side of the road at night 
• Make sure you have more than enough gas to last you between exits. 
• At night, avoid pulling over on the side of the road unless it’s an emergency. If you have to pull over, be wary of pedestrians approaching your vehicle or other vehicles pulling over behind you. If you're in a dark area, put your flashers on. 
• Be cautious and aware of aggressive drivers or tailgaters 
• Scan the road for hazards 
• Do your best to relax on your trip and keep in mind why you planned your trip in the first place. 

By following these safety tips, you can decrease your chances of running into an emergency on the road and ensure you and your family make it to your destination safely.