Whether you’re going on vacation or visiting extended family, long road trips can be a lot of fun. However, any time you’re in a moving vehicle, there is some level of risk—and after long hours behind the wheel, you may become tired or distracted. Therefore, to avoid a car wreck, follow the tips in the guide below.

How to Keep Your Family Safe on the Road

1. Rest Before Setting Out

Whenever possible, avoid driving while drowsy. If you have to start the trip in the morning, turn in early the night before. If there is another licensed adult with you, consider switching off to give yourself time for a break or nap.

2. Make Pit Stops

Additionally, it can be hard to focus on the road if you are distracted by hunger, the need to use the restroom, or the desire to stretch your legs. Even if you want to push through, eating or drinking in the car takes one of your hands off the wheel. Instead, schedule time for breaks—if only to walk around a little. However, to make the trip more fun, also consider researching the route beforehand and plan to stop at attractions, interesting sights, or favorite restaurants along the way.

3. Know Where to Go

Even in the era of Google® Maps, it’s wise to review the route before you leave—ensuring that you’re not second-guessing yourself while driving. Car wrecks often occur when people make the last-second choice to switch lanes, so if you can’t remember every step of the directions, consider asking someone else in the car to watch the GPS and remind you of what’s coming.

4. Minimize Distraction

Distracted driving is responsible for about 400,000 car wrecks a year, as well as 3,450 deaths. While the most significant component of this is cellphone use, your mind can also wander changing the radio station or adjusting the heat settings in the car. Therefore, either hand over these responsibilities to a passenger or wait until you have a chance to pull over.

Following these tips can reduce your risk of a car wreck and, yet, sometimes accidents are unavoidable, even for the most fastidious of drivers. If you are injured by someone else’s negligence, make sure you seek legal representation. The team at Reed & Perry has a track record of providing sound, compassionate care to clients of Katy, TX. Schedule a consultation by visiting the firm’s website or calling (281) 491-5000.