|
|
 |
Driving
Tips - Information
and Tips |
-
Always get enough sleep before beginning a long drive, and eat
something before you go.
- Highly caffeinated beverages are not necessarily the best way to
stay awake while driving. While initially you will feel more alert,
the effects can recede with time, and your attention may wander
although you remain awake.
- Pull over and take breaks every couple hours, even if you don't
feel sleepy. Stretch your legs by walking around, grab a snack, and
get some fresh air. If you need to, take a quick nap.
- Keep your window cracked while you drive, and if you're driving
alone, turn on the radio or put on some music. Don't zone out!
- If you can, share the driving responsibilities with someone else.
This will allow you to keep an eye on each other while driving, but
also allow you to take a quick nap and not lose any time.
- If you do have to pull over -- pull off the road! Never park on
the shoulder or in the breakdown lane for any reason, unless it's an
emergency.
- Know the laws along your route concerning cell phone use while
driving. While it may be legal in one place, it may be illegal in
another, and ignorance is not typically an acceptable excuse for a
violation.
- If you don't know this one, shame on you. Never drink any alcohol
before your trip. While you may not become intoxicated from one
beer, you will become sleepy.
- Keep an eye on the skies, and if you can, plan a route around
inclement weather. A minor detour could actually wind up saving you
time.
- Search the Web for traffic update sites, and listen to radio
traffic alerts, especially when approaching major cities. AM
all-news stations are often your best bet.
- Bring a map if you need one (if you're wise, you'll bring one
regardless). Mapquest is a
great place to find online directions - print them out and take them
along!
- Know exactly how to get to your destination before you leave the
house.
- If you are driving a rental vehicle, familiarize yourself with the
car and all of its equipment (horn, brakes, hazard lights). For an
amusing-but-true look at this issue, see The
First 10’ (and 15 Seconds) of Your Car Rental.
- Lock all of your valuables (especially items which are
conspicuously gifts) in the trunk or glove compartment, and stow all
luggage in the trunk.
|
 |
Find broken links, incorrect information or have related tips you'd
like to share? Let us
know! |
|
