When we speak of a long road trip, how long are we exactly referring to? People generally consider road trips to be a day-long journey across three or four locations within the same state.
However, some travel enthusiasts even leave for multi-week road trips nationwide. According to Statista, the most common driving period for road trips in 2024 extended between 6 and 10 hours. Usually, multiple people travel together to opt for driving periods of 4 to 6 hours each.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure.

What if that’s not an option for you? If you’re the only one or one of the two who needs to get behind the wheel, there are some important things to know.
Three dangers lurk during road trips, and they must be addressed. In this article, we will discuss those dangers and ways to stay safe.
Extreme Fatigue
The words ‘extreme fatigue’ have been carefully chosen here to place emphasis. Many people confuse fatigue with tiredness when both are not the same.
If someone is feeling tired, they are said to be experiencing a general feeling of low energy. It is a largely temporary feeling that tends to quickly dissipate with proper rest. According to the Cleveland Clinic, fatigue can make it difficult to get up from bed in the morning and work through the day.
It is a form of persistent and extreme tiredness that interferes with daily activities. Keep in mind that we are not implying that fatigue is incurable. However, it takes a complete lifestyle change over weeks and months to get rid of.
Common symptoms of fatigue include muscle pain, anxiety, depression, a lack of motivation, stiff shoulders, and malaise. Driving for extended periods without much-needed breaks can undoubtedly lead to fatigue.
Even in general, driving is mentally and physically demanding work. When one participates in this activity continuously without proper sleep, it impacts muscle strength, reaction time, and road focus, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
It’s important even for the most enthusiastic drivers to combat their driving fatigue in the following ways –
- Taking periodic breaks to walk around, stretch one’s limbs, and get fresh air
- Getting adequate sleep before embarking on a long journey
- Staying well-hydrated throughout the road trip
- Consuming caffeine sparingly and only when necessary
- Switching driving responsibilities with someone else whenever possible
Distractions
Any time a driver spends behind the wheel, they are vulnerable to several distractions. This possibility only increases when the journey is long. One of the major dangers associated with road distractions is loss of focus and accidents.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, cell phones are among the most common distractions on the road. There are many ways in which a phone can become a distraction, including notifications, texting, calling, streaming music, etc.
Another distraction is talking with other passengers or eating/drinking on the move. We understand you will feel hungry and thirsty on a long road trip. However, be mindful not to meet your needs while the engine is on.
It takes only a moment’s distraction to end up in a serious crash. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident, one may suffer severe injuries, including whiplash, burns, lacerations, and broken bones.
The victims deserve justice and the liable party must be held accountable for their negligence. If the insurer is not offering a fair settlement, a personal injury lawyer will have to intervene. They will represent the victim in court through compelling evidence and eyewitness testimonies.
Depending on the case’s complexity, a fair resolution may take weeks or months. Now, imagine if something like this occurs when a driver is enjoying an interstate road trip. It would spoil more than just the fun of the day.
TorHoerman Law estimates that complex and severe car accidents may involve payouts as high as $2 million. No one leaves for a road trip expecting such an unforeseen event to happen. The best way to avoid such incidents is to practice careful road discipline.
Do not give in to any common distractions behind the wheel. If you must attend a call or send a text, just park your vehicle on the side of the road and finish the business. When you’re driving, all your attention should be on the road.
Poor Diet
If you’ve been on long road trips before, what are the usual snacks you carry along? Most people focus so much on adventure and experiences that they ignore their health.
That is why carrying along roadside snacks, deep-fried items, and Red Bull on the journey is commonplace. However, this is also dangerous because such food can make one’s body more tired and sluggish.
Your body does not just require calories to keep going at an optimal rate. It thrives on nutrient density. If you consume foods and beverages high in calories but low in nutritional content, you risk falling further into laziness and fatigue.
Even if you’re eating proper meals and not just snacks, ensure they’re wholesome and nutritious. Also, avoid eating too much as large meals tend to make, even the best of us, sleepy and lazy.
When combined with a lack of sleep, you become a ticking time bomb. Your focus will dwindle and reaction time will lag. As a result, you risk getting yourself into an accident again. At the least, you won’t be able to enjoy the scenic views on the way.
Experts suggest that the following are a few ways to avoid feeling drowsy after eating –
- Eat little and often instead of consuming large meals
- Exercise regularly and maintain a moderate weight
- Stay properly hydrated
- Limit caffeine intake or avoid it altogether
- Establish a sleep routine and ensure you get good-quality sleep
The purpose of this article is to caution and not deter readers from embarking on a road trip. The frequency of a long road trip is entirely a matter of personal preference.
You can take road trips a few times a year, depending on factors like time constraints and budget. Practice some precautions while you’re out and about and explore new landscapes.
- 3 Unexpected Health Risks for Travelers (And How to Tackle Them) - February 7, 2025
- Tips for Stress-Free Travel from Start to Finish - February 6, 2025
- Experience America’s Best Road Trips in These Three Cities - January 27, 2025