7 Preparations to Make Before Entering the Toll Road
The toll road, or more commonly known as the highway, is indeed the fastest alternative to reach your destination. This paid road is claimed to be able to cut travel time compared to conventional routes.
Moreover, several highways are currently under construction in the country. However, did you know that highways are the most dangerous routes compared to other conventional roads?
How could it not be? Vehicles traveling at a minimum speed of 80 kilometers per hour are on these roads. If there is no adequate preparation, danger is lurking.
Here are 7 items that you must prepare as a driver:
Driver's Physical Condition
Entering the toll road requires high concentration while driving. Well, that concentration requires fitness. Therefore, light exercises (stretching), warming up, and relaxation can help maintain the driver's alertness.
Tire Condition
Accidents caused by tires rank at the top on the toll road, second only to human errors like drowsiness and others. Do not dare to drive a car with poor tire conditions. From tire pressure to the actual condition of the tires, everything must be checked.
The consequences can be fatal. Do not take risks; check the actual tire condition and pay attention to the recommended tire pressure. Lastly, don't forget to prepare a spare tire in case of emergencies. It is also important to use the type of tire that suits your needs; if you are still looking for the right tire, you can read the reference in the article Choosing the Right Type of Tire for Your Needs.
Light Condition
Entering the highway does not mean minimal preparation, including regarding lights. In fact, you must ensure that your car's lights are in good condition.
Through the lights, you can communicate with surrounding vehicles as a source of illumination. Therefore, checking the turn signals, beams, and fog lights is crucial before venturing into the toll wilderness.
Fuel
It sounds trivial. Many drivers neglect the condition of their car's fuel when entering the toll road. Once the fuel warning light blinks, feelings of anxiety and panic immediately strike. Concentration on driving is ultimately disrupted, and it would be unfortunate if the car breaks down in the middle of the road. Therefore, it is wise to check your fuel tank before entering this road.
Preparing Budget and Toll Card
This is often overlooked by some drivers when entering the toll road. First, prepare the toll budget. Hopefully, you have set aside some funds for this plus the toll roads you will be passing through.
Besides saving travel time, you won't be in a hurry to find cash to pay at the toll gate. Along with that, the toll card (including E-Money) must also be handled properly. This means that it should be placed in a suitable location and easily accessible. Again, the issue of searching for the toll card while driving can be avoided.
Emergency Numbers and Official Tow Truck
Do not hesitate to contact the toll road management's contact number in case of an emergency. From inquiring about road conditions to needing tow truck assistance, this can be communicated here.
Ensure Your Destination
Where are you going? This basic question must be clearly answered before driving. It's not trivial; when entering the toll road, you might unconsciously forget your destination.
Unfortunately, when you realize it, you may have missed the exit. However, if you are aware of this, such situations can be minimized. Or at the very least, you should have an alternative route in mind in case of changes along the way.
