It takes some serious skill for safe driving on mountain roads and these tips will ensure a secure arrival to the Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are the perfect spot for a family reunion because of their beauty and abundant natural activities. However, vacationers must make safety their number one priority while traveling. Follow these three tips for safe driving along tricky mountain roads so that your reunion goes off without a hitch.
Safe driving on Clingman’s Dome Road, Smoky Mountains National Park in NC. Photo courtesy of Warren LeMay via Flickr
Schedule a Pre-Trip Tune-Up
Firstly, it’s important to have a mechanic look over your vehicle before you leave for your trip. The Smoky Mountains are one of the most stunning places in the country; you’ll want to see as much as you can. Sadly, nothing will ruin your reunion more than car troubles. So please, take your ride to a repair shop before you head anywhere. Ask the expert to pop the hood and look over your engine. It would also be smart if you got new tires before your adventure. The last thing anyone wants to do is change a flat on the side of the mountain.
Safe Driving on Switchbacks
Safe driving at night with high beams. Photo courtesy of Alex Montes via Pexels
Driving through mountains takes skill. Mountain roads are unique; it’s not like driving on an ordinary street. Thus, you must drive as carefully as possible while traveling through unfamiliar territory. Mountain roads are full of twists and turns (switchbacks), so you must drive slowly.
No matter what, don’t speed while driving on a mountainside. Curves and turns can appear out of nowhere, and things can get disastrous quickly if you cut a corner too fast. Keep all your family members safe by driving slowly through the mountains and always wear a seatbelt.
Use High Beams at Night
Another tip for safe driving along mountain roads is to turn your high beams on at night. Driving in uneven territory is tough enough, but things can get even more complicated at night. You need to see what you’re doing, so always turn your high beams on the minute the sun goes down. Sometimes animals or pieces of the mountain can make their way into the road. These unforeseen objects can be very dangerous for drivers. Turning your high beams on will give you a clearer picture of what lies ahead so that everyone stays safe.
When considering a trip to the Smoky Mountains, be sure to include a check-up for your vehicle. After all, it will be carrying precious cargo on winding mountain roads with unknowns around every corner. Safe driving is the number one things travelers can adhere to for a successful trip through majestic mountains.
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