Around this time of year, there is more traffic congestion on highways and more kids playing outside. Follow these March Break driving tips to ensure you and your family stay safe on the roads as well as other pedestrians.

School Zones and Parks

These areas may still be filled with kids walking, bike riding and playing. Be sure to respect school zone driving rules and avoid passing any cars. Drive carefully as children can unexpectedly dash across the street without looking for traffic in each direction.

Vehicle Maintenance

Before packing your bags and hitting the road for some March Break travelling, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition.?

Give Yourself Extra Time

If you are planning a road trip, it’s a smart idea to leave earlier and give yourself extra time. This is especially beneficial in bad weather conditions as well as an unfamiliar area. You might also need the extra time to find parking if you?re travelling to a big city.

Bring Backpacks

School may be out but backpacks are still required for packing reasons! Have your children take a backpack with them and fill it with extra clothes, games, toys and books to keep them entertained during the ride.

Don’t Drive Drowsy

Drowsy driving is quite dangerous. If you have been driving all day and feel tired, have a passenger who is eligible to drive take over or pull over and rest. Another way to help prevent driving while tired is to take breaks and get some fresh air. It will also give you the opportunity to stretch your muscles and run any errands if needed.

Don’t Drive Distracted

While having a GPS and using smartphone apps can be beneficial to us while navigating, it can also become dangerous if we become too focused on them. Remember, to enter your destination information before you leave and listen to the voice commands rather than paying attention to the screen all the time.

Distracted driving is illegal and can possibly include automatic suspension of a driver?s license and large fines. This also includes eating behind the wheel and fiddling with the radio. Avoid multitasking if you can and ask any passengers in the car for assistance in navigation and being in charge of the tunes.