With the arrival of spring, many Americans head out onto the roads to explore new sights. In addition to planning and packing for your destination, prepare for the drive, which is often the longest part of a road trip. Here are a few tips to help you avoid accidents that could require calling for a tow truck.

What to Remember During a Long Driving Trip

1. Use Cruise Control

Setting the cruise control while driving down long, open roads conserves gas and prevents speeding, which can be easy to do when driving without traffic. Speeding can result in a ticket, and increases your risk of damaging your tires or getting into an accident that requires the help of a tow truck.

2. Stay Hydrated

When sitting in a car for a long period, your body naturally grows warmer and produces more sweat. Combine this with blasting air conditioners, which cause dryness, and you’re bound to get thirsty during your trip. Prevent dehydration by packing a case of water bottles and water-rich snacks, such as fruits and salads.

3. Stop Regularly

Prolonged sitting can cause leg stiffness and back pain, making the ride uncomfortable for drivers and passengers. Stop every few hours to take a bathroom break, fuel up, restock water and snacks, or check out local sights, and your body will thank you for the exercise.

4. Play Games

When taking a trip with other people, especially kids, having games prepared keeps everyone entertained and helps the time go by faster. Consider classics such as “I spy” and “twenty questions” which can be tailored to suit any party. This will help the driver stay alert and prevent bored kids from causing distractions.

5. Periodically Swap Drivers

On long trips, driver fatigue can cause accidents, so keep your passengers safe by switching your drivers every few hours. You can work out the logistics ahead of the trip, including deciding checkpoints where you’ll change who’s driving. This ensures there’s always an alert person behind the wheel, which prevents accidents and a need for a tow truck. 

If you need roadside assistance during your trip, call Craig’s Towing & Repair around  La Crosse County, WI. Serving La Crosse, Baraboo, Lake Delton, and Wisconsin Dells, WI, this family-owned auto shop has tow trucks that provide 24/7 emergency service and recovery if your vehicle experiences troubles with its brakes, battery, or any other part. Visit their website to learn more about what they do, or call (608) 784-1638 for assistance.