Long Weekend Driving Tips

The long weekend is here, and that means many people will be travelling. Highways will get more congested with RV trailers, motorcyclists, trucks, SUVS, and sedans. If you’re taking a road trip this weekend, we want to ensure that you get to your destination safely, so we have compiled some driving tips:

Beware of Fog, Haze, and Sun

Summer driving may seem safer than winter driving, but it comes with some hazards. Early mornings can be foggy in the summer so make sure to turn on your fog lights. Fire season can also mean smoke and haze, so if you encounter this on the road, make sure all your exterior lights are on; daytime running lights might not engage your taillights. For both smoke and fog, you should also increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. To help avoid the sun’s glare, make sure that your windshield is free of chips and is clean so that you have the best visibility. You should also always have sunglasses ready for any sunny weather and use your visor to help deflect the sun as well.

Be Ready for Rain

You never know when you will hit a rain cloud, so make sure that your windshield wipers are in good condition. Windshield wipers should be changed annually, so if yours haven’t been changed, visit your local Tirecraft, and we can supply you with the correct ones for your vehicle. Rain on the roads can also cause you to hydroplane, which causes you to lose control of the car. To prevent hydroplaning, reduce your speed and turn off your cruise control. Ensuring that your tires are rotated and balanced can also help to prevent hydroplaning. Your local Tirecraft can let you know if your tires need to be balanced or rotated so visit your nearest location before your road trip.

Be Rested and Sober

Getting a good night’s sleep before your road trip will help keep you alert. A lack of sleep can decrease your reaction time and affect your coordination. Driving while tired can have the same effects as driving while intoxicated. Finally, never drive after you have consumed alcohol or cannabis. Always have a sober driver ready to take the wheel no matter where you go.

Pack a Safety Kit

Be ready for anything while you’re on the road. Having a safety kit with you will help get you back on the road. Your safety kit should include bottled water, a first aid kit, sunscreen, a flashlight, a phone charger, a tire gauge, jumper cables, and protein snacks. You should also have a spare tire, a lug wrench, and a car jack. If your vehicle doesn’t have a spare tire, store a portable tire inflater in your car.

By following these tips, we hope that you can all make it to your destination safely and have a great long weekend with your family and friends. If you need any advice about your vehicle, visit your local Tirecraft. Tirecraft – Real People Servicing Real Life.