Many people commute to and from their work each day, and the difference in the number on the road is substantially larger than it has been before. While most people are safe when driving, it’s good to be vigilant when it comes to watching others on the road. From avoiding distractions (like your phone!) to making sure you check the weather ahead of time, here are five essential safety tips for your daily commute.

1. Stay Alert & Avoid Distractions

When it comes to the daily commute, you should consider what distractions are present while you’re driving. That way, you can actively avoid them and keep you and your loved ones safe.

Staying alert is crucial when it comes to your health and the well-being of yourself/others on the road. If you’re not alert, then you should be taking a break and getting some rest before continuing the drive. Distractions are just as bad, being it to being impaired or intoxicated, so it’s good to make sure all distractions are removed or avoided.

However, sometimes we make mistakes and get distracted, whether by our kids, our phones, or even getting lost when following directions. If you find yourself in a situation where you’re getting pulled over, it’s important that you stay calm, remain composed, and respect authority. Failure to comply with a police officer is an additional charge, so it’s best to not escalate a situation, especially if you’re in the wrong. You also want to make sure that you’re setting a good example for your children (if they are commuting with you).

2. Plan Your Route & Be Prepared

Planning your route and being prepared before you leave the house is definitely something you want to be doing, whether you’re going on a big adventure or simply driving to and from work each day.

Ideally, you want to plan out the best route possible and also have several backup routes so that if you find yourself in a bit of trouble, you can make use of the other routes. Be prepared by checking your car before you leave, and making sure there’s enough fuel in the car before making any journey.

3. Make Use Of Navigation Apps

Apps are great for navigation, so it’s definitely something you should look at using for your daily commute. There are some great apps that a lot of drivers would have loved to have had back in the day.

For example, a safe route planner app is a great option to help keep you on a safe route so that you can get to your commute without encountering any hairy situations that put you at risk. There are also great navigation apps like Waze and Google Maps to utilize, too.

4. Adjust For Conditions & Traffic

Weather conditions are something you should check before you travel, as well as the traffic situation on the roads you’re traveling on. The more you can plan and prepare, the quicker you’re likely to get into the workplace (or anywhere else!) without running late.

5. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts. Although it sounds bad, it’s best to assume that everyone is a bad driver! This way you’re always alert and aware when it comes to who’s around you.

These safety tips are crucial for keeping you safe during your daily commute, so be prepared, be confident, and be safe on the road!

Featured Image Credit: Joel Durkee