Five summer road trip safety tips

By Michael E. Festa

Whether heading to the Cape, the Berkshires or beyond, nothing says summer in New England more than an old-fashioned road trip. But as more families plan staycations and day trips, the roads can get crowded quickly. AARP Driver Safety has five tips to ensure an enjoyable and safe journey for road trippers of all ages.

1. Plan ahead. When mapping a drive to a new destination, make sure you have a thorough understanding of the route. Be aware of any potential obstacles, such as heavy traffic or construction areas, and plan your trip so that you can avoid these dangerous and stress-inducing areas if possible.

You might also want to be aware of fun roadside attractions. Remember to pack any essential road trip supplies such as snacks, water and an audio book (and chargers for smartphones and electronic devices), and if you are traveling with children, pack games and activities to keep them entertained.

2. Give yourself plenty of time. According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, drivers who have been behind the wheel for more than eight hours have nearly twice the risk of crashing, compared with drivers who have been on the road less than two hours. To stave off drowsy driving, make plenty of stops — at least one every two hours — to stretch your legs, use the restroom and get some fresh air. If you have passengers who can drive, alternate drivers every few hours.

And don’t skimp on sleep each night: People who slept less than five hours before driving increased their risk of crashing four- or five-fold compared to people who slept the recommended eight hours.

3. Be prepared. A vehicle breakdown can quickly turn a road trip from fun to nerve-racking and stressful. Take precautionary measures a few days in advance to reduce your chances of experiencing a car problem on the road. Make sure to check the air pressure in all four tires, check your tire tread wear, and make sure your vehicle’s fluids are at proper levels. Also, pack an emergency roadside kit that contains, at a minimum, signaling devices, a pocketknife, a first aid kit, water and nonperishable food items. It may also be worthwhile to invest in a roadside assistance service.

4. Sharpen your driving skills. The most important safety feature — and the key to ensuring that you reach your destination safely — is a safe driver. Refresh your defensive driving skills and knowledge of the rules of the road through a safe driving course, such as the AARP Driver Safety classroom or online courses. These classes are an excellent way to hone your skills and keep you and your family safe. Visit aarp.org/drive to learn more.

5. Enjoy the ride. Many fantastic memories are born through road trips, so make sure that you’re taking advantage of the best views, tourist attractions and roadside diners along the way. There are a variety of tools and apps available for smartphones, designed to describe all of the road trip must-sees along any given route.