by Janet Farricelli CPDT-KA

Created on: May 28, 2009

If you are planning to embark on a very long trip make sure you are prepared for the unexpected: it isnever a mistake to err on the side of caution when it comes to safety. A long distance drive entails a lot of concentration, time and focus and the lack of sleep and fatigue are some of the main causes of accidents. It can never be repeated enough: take it easy and don't rush, better arrive late but all in one piece! Following are some safety tips for long distance drivers.

-Have Your Car Inspected

If your trip is particularly lengthy it is worth to have you car inspected in order to avoid unpleasant surprises. Chances are high if you own a car far from being new, your mechanic will uncover issues that may interfere with safety. Nothing is more frustrating than dealing with a mechanical problem when you find yourself in unfamiliar territory and you must post pone your arrival because your car broke down!

-Bring your Cell

Your cell phone can be a life saver. You may need to call roadside assistance or you may need to call emergency personnel if you witness an accident. Make sure your cell phone is fully charged or invest in one of those car battery chargers.

-Get Back Up

Enroll in AAA so you have back up if your car should break down. It is great to have somebody to rely on 24/7 when you are traveling across States. The big plus is that your AAA car will also make you get some great rates as well upon checking in hotels. Always remember to keep your AAA card in a handy spot in your car or wallet.

-Have a Good Night Sleep

The day prior to your trip make sure you have a good night sleep and you eat light. You want to get enough zzz's so to wake up refreshed and reasy or the trip. This will make you start greatly advantaged.

-Listen to Disco Music

Disco music has a good arousal effect and very likely it will keep you much more awake than classical or jazz music. House, techno and disco are pretty good choices. The higher the volume the better. However, you do not want to put it so loud that you may not hear the siren of a police officer telling you to pull over!

-Stop when Tired

Avoid trying to be stoic and getting from point A to point B in record time without resting. You are human and your body needs requent stops to get refreshed. If you are getting sleepy pull over in a safe area and get some rest. If you are driving alone call a loved one and tell them where you are and have them check on you every now and then.

-Coffee, chocolate, carbonated drinks

The three C sources of caffeine that may help you stay longer awake. However, be aware that even though caffeine works as a stimulant it also has a diuretic effect which may cause you to pay more visits than you would like to the public restroom.

As seen, there are various tips that may help you arrive safely and fresh at your destination. The golden rule is not to over do it, safety comes first and you do want to endanger yourself or others just because you want to arrive at your destination at record time.

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