Travelling abroad means setting yourself up for plenty of adventures, incredible experiences and once in a lifetime moments. Whether you have your mind set on viewing some of the world’s most famous landmarks or taking part in local festivals and celebrations, having an itinerary that’s bursting with activities and events is what travelling is all about.
For some travellers, getting to grips with the local roads and transport is a big factor in their travel adventures. Whether that’s renting a mini van and touring the open roads or hiring a moped or quad bike and roaming through the cities and local streets. It’s a great way to discover your destination and feel more like a local.
However, when driving on roads you’re not familiar with, you should exercise caution… the last thing you want is to be involved in a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault and be left with devastating injuries – you’ll find information about hiring personal injury lawyers in Houston by clicking the link.
So, with this in mind, I’ve gathered some simple road safety tips that every traveller should follow.
Inspect your hire vehicle
If you’re planning on hiring a vehicle whilst at your destination, then it’s important that you conduct your own set of checks before you sign on the dotted line. Any damages, scratches or problems that you don’t flag up now, could be blamed on you when you return the vehicle, leaving you with a hefty fine. Check the paintwork for any damage, take photographs and make the hire company aware of any issues. This applies to the interior too. Ensure the oil levels are acceptable and all the car’s features work. Don’t forget to check the lights!
Get familiar with your car
If you’re driving a car in a foreign country then, quite often (depending on where you are from and where you are travelling), everything you’re used to will now be on the other side of the vehicle. Whilst the car is stationary, it’s a good chance to figure out where everything is and how it works. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask a member of staff for assistance. Investigate the wipers, lights, indicators, how to open the hood, which side the fuel cap is on and which kind of fuel you should be filling up with.
Belt up
It sounds straightforward, but you’d be amazed at how many people forget this simple piece of safety advice when they’re on the road. Even if the locals don’t wear seatbelts, you should always buckle up in case of an accident.
Don’t be intimidated
If you’re driving in a new city or country then you’re probably a little extra cautious and driving a little slower than you normally would, this is fine – however, the locals may not agree and probably won’t hold back in sharing their frustration. In order to keep yourself safe, don’t be pressured by other drivers to do anything sudden or dangerous. If you need to gather yourself, then pull over when it’s safe to do so.
Don’t drink and drive
You’re travelling with friends and the drinks were flowing last night, you feel fine this morning, but could you still have alcohol in your system? If you know you’re going to be behind the wheel the next morning, avoid alcohol entirely.
