As a frequent driver, it’s important to take steps to stay safe and protect yourself on the road. Here are seven tips to help you stay safe both on and off the road.

1. Invest In a Dash Cam

In 2000, only 11% of state police and highway patrol vehicles had in-car cameras. Today, however, it’s estimated that about 72% of all state patrol vehicles utilize in-car video systems. This is because dashcams provide a valuable perspective on what happened in the event of an accident. They can help protect you from false insurance claims, and they can also serve as evidence in court. There are many affordable dash cams on the market, so it’s worth investing in one for your own safety and peace of mind.

2. Watch Out For Whiplash

The top three most common car accident injuries include concussions/whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and broken bones. Whiplash is a particularly common injury in car accidents, and it can happen even in low-speed collisions. Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, headaches, and fatigue. To help prevent whiplash, it’s important to sit up straight and keep your head against the headrest while driving. If you’re in an accident and experience symptoms of whiplash, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

3. Get Regular Check-ups

As a frequent driver, you’re likely spending a lot of time sitting in your car. This can take a toll on your body, especially if you’re not taking regular breaks to stretch and move around. To keep yourself in good health, it’s important to get regular check-ups with your doctor. This is especially important for women, as about 1 in 8 U.S. women (about 13%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetime. Regular check-ups can help catch any potential health issues early when they’re more treatable.

4. Take Care Of Your Car

As a frequent driver, you’re likely putting a lot of wear and tear on your car. To keep yourself safe on the road, it’s important to take care of your car. This means regularly checking the oil, brakes, and tires, and taking your car in for regular tune-ups. It’s also important to keep your car clean and organized, as a cluttered car can be a distraction while driving.

5. Plan Your Route

As a frequent driver, you’re likely making the same trips over and over again. To save time and reduce stress, it’s important to plan your route ahead of time. This means looking up traffic reports and choosing the best route to take based on current conditions. It’s also a good idea to leave a little extra time to account for unexpected delays.

6. Stay Alert and Focused

As a frequent driver, it’s easy to fall into the trap of mindlessly driving on autopilot. However, staying alert and focused is crucial for staying safe on the road. This means avoiding distractions like using your phone or eating while driving, and taking regular breaks to rest and refresh your mind. It’s also a good idea to vary your route and listen to different music or podcasts to keep your mind engaged.

7. Be Aware of Weather Conditions

Weather can have a significant impact on driving conditions. It’s important to be aware of the weather forecast before hitting the road, especially if you’re driving in an area that’s prone to severe weather. This means checking for storm warnings, flash flood warnings, and other hazards that could affect your safety. It’s also important to be aware of the different driving techniques that are required in different weather conditions, such as slowing down when it rains or snows and turning on your headlights.

By following these tips, you can stay safe and protect yourself as a frequent driver while enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle. Remember to invest in a dash cam, watch out for whiplash, get regular check-ups, take care of your car, and plan your route. With these precautions in place, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges of the road ahead.