With summer practically here, many New Jersey families are already planning epic road trips. While fun and relaxation are top priorities, you also want to ensure that you and your family remain safe on the way to your destination. In this case, Nationwide recommends the following road trip safety tips.
Schedule multiple rest breaks
While you may be tempted to push through on extended journeys, this can actually be quite dangerous. When planning your trip, be sure to include multiple rest breaks to ensure fatigue doesn’t become an issue. It’s recommended that you stop every two hours to stretch your legs, but you should also stop any time you begin to feel tired. Keep in mind that many people start to feel sluggish between 1 and 3 pm, and getting a good night’s sleep before your journey will allow you to feel alert for longer.
Make sure your kids are entertained
When your kids are bored and restless in the back of the car, you’ll be the first to know. Not only can this increase stress during your trip, it can also contribute to dangerous distractions that pull your attention away from the road. Make sure your kids have plenty of entertainment, whether that’s a handheld device, portable DVD player, or books. You can also play games with your kids on the road to keep them occupied and entertained.
Take along healthy snacks
Food gives you energy and healthy, wholesome foods will provide the fuel you need to stay alert behind the wheel. Relying on fast food may give you a burst of energy, but bear in mind that you’ll likely experience a damaging crash only a few hours after eating. Fruits, vegetables, and trail mix are great options for energizing your body while on the road. You should also be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
