For many Americans, Labor Day weekend is the last chance to enjoy everything that the summer has to offer.
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It’s the weekend when people leave their houses to immerse in great barbecues, short getaways, and other fun stuff before the beginning of the new season.
With so much planning in between, Labor Day weekend has become one of the busiest weekends for motorists in the road, which is the reason why driving safely is recommended.
Having said that, let us walk you through some driving safety tips for a great Labor Day weekend.
Make sure you car runs in good condition
Before you climb behind the wheel, take your car to the mechanic and ask the technician to inspect the engine, radiator, fluids, tires, steering wheel, and brakes.
A general car inspection will help you spot any hidden signal that may affect the performance of your vehicle during or after your trip.
Another advice is to carry with you a vehicle emergency kit to help you cope with unexpected breakdowns.
Your emergency kit should always include: jumper wires, a tire gauge, a flashlight, wrenches, screwdrivers, duct tape, rags, and emergency stop signs in case you need roadside assistance.
You are also advised to keep a first-aid kit in your vehicle along with few bottles of water, batteries, a blanket in case things get worse and you need to wait for assistance longer than you expected.
Focus on your driving and be safe
Most accidents on highway are associated with distracted driving and poor driving performance when driving near trucks.
If you are not feeling well, active, or have been drinking prior to getting in your car, you are strongly advised to call off your driving plans or hand the keys to another licensed driver.
This particularly applies to motorists who are driving back home on Labor Day. So much fun during the weekend will make you feel exhausted, affecting your ability to stay focused on the road.
Another great advice is to plan ahead few rest stops to recharge your energies, which helps you stay out of danger. Know your limits and be able to tell whether you are fit to drive.
You also need to watch out for truck drivers who are getting closer to your vehicle. Note that trucks cannot stop as fast as small vehicles to avoid collisions.
For that reason, never try to cut in front of them unexpectedly, and pay attention to their blind spots. If you cannot see the truck’s side mirrors, quite probably they cannot see you either.
Avoid hellish driving experiences
Planning your journey is vital, mostly because traffic congestion increases during rush hour. If you are driving on Labor Day weekend, try to leave on Friday before rush hour on Friday or Saturday early morning.
To avoid being stuck in traffic, clever drivers leave before 4 pm during work week, or after 10 pm where the roads are less crowded.
You are also advised to map your route prior to heading your destination. Use your smartphone or paper map to look for alternatives roads or spot potential road closures or accidents that may obstruct your driving.
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