Plan Ahead for Summer Family Vacations

  

 Email Article  

Tweet  

As we approach the time of the year when school is about to finish up and summer vacations begin, most of us will begin to plan for our summer vacations. That means there will be an influx of motorists vying for a spot on the road. As professional truck drivers, you are very aware of that fact. Although that doesn't mean that once you come out of your rig, you will remember what it's like to travel with your family in your "civilian" vehicle.



The American Road Team Captains, chosen by the American Trucking Associations (ATA), have come up with some tips to help make our travels for work and pleasure both a bit safer. 

Here are just a few of the numerous ideas that can make traveling less stressful:



1) Map out your route: Know where you're going, where the exits are and be observant of the rest areas. Also have an alternate route planned just in case of construction.


2) Have a summer driving kit handy: The kit could include extra water, activities for the kids and extra snacks. You never know when you may be stranded.


3) Watch your speed: With the roads being even more congested, it's always good idea to obey the speed limits, especially in construction zones.


4) Don't use your cell phone while driving: All of us have multi-tasked at one time or another, driving shouldn't be one of those times. If even for a brief moment you look away from the road, someone could cut you off and cause an accident. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep your eyes on the road.


5) Safety First: BUCKLE UP! And make sure all infant and toddler seats are properly installed and secured.


6) Trucking friends: Never follow a truck too closely because if you can't see them in their mirror, they can't see you in your car. Even though you have a much smaller vehicle and believe you can squeeze in, the truck you're trying to cut off can't stop on a dime.

Coming off the road for vacation can be a stressful time and a vacation with the family should provide a relaxing, enjoyable environment. Make the most of it by doing what you do everyday you drive your truck: be safe, be aware, and have a good time. Remembering to take your time to be safe could save the lives of your family and someone else's.



Posted by Janet Starcevic with help from Eric Reller of the ATA.