Road trips are one of America's favorite pastimes, and Montanans are experts. Whether you're taking in the desolate beauty of the Rockies or heading east to a bustling city like Chicago, a road trip is an opportunity to see America like never before. 

Unfortunately, car accidents kill around 40,000 people a year in the United States, with hundreds of thousands more injured. Though not all car accidents are preventable, you can take charge and protect yourself through these helpful tips.

Don't Travel Alone

Having a friend or family member along on a road trip isn't just about making memories with a loved one, but also about keeping you safe. A passenger can check messages, adjust car settings, watch for dangerous drivers, and keep you awake. If they're also a licensed driver, they can switch out with you if you've been driving too long.

If you can't find someone to join you, then commit to taking more breaks than you would otherwise. Stop every few hours at a rest stop to stretch your legs, get a drink of water, and update loved ones back home with your current location. This not only keeps you awake but also ensures that someone knows where you are in case something happens. 

Schedule Vehicle Maintenance

Car culture is embedded in Montana life, as the vast state requires a reliable steed that can withstand a little wear and tear. When you're heading out on a long journey, though, a full checkup is a must. 

Ensure that your tires have enough tread and that all fluids are topped off. Get any windshield cracks fixed so they don't spread and impede your vision. Be especially mindful of any issues like an overheating engine or leaking transmission that might leave you stranded; after all, sparsely populated Great Plains areas may mean you're stuck there for hours until a kindly motorist picks you up. 

If possible, you might consider renting a car so that someone else is responsible for maintenance. This also includes travel insurance, and you can pay extra for roadside assistance if needed. 

Check Expected Travel Conditions

Whether you're heading out in winter or on a beautiful summer's day, knowing the potential weather along your route can make a huge difference. This enables you to plan alternate routes if a heavy snowstorm or major wind event is expected.

The National Weather Service provides nationwide radar several days in advance so you can check if any major weather systems are along your travel path. Even if the skies look clear, have a secondary route in mind in case there is a major vehicle pileup or unexpected construction. 

Put Your Phone on Do Not Disturb

Distracted driving is a major factor in car accidents, and it's especially prevalent on long drives. Long, monotonous driving, especially at night, can leave drivers feeling both bored and a little invincible. 

Checking that text from your best friend seems innocent, but it takes your eyes off the road for about four seconds. When driving at 55 miles per hour, that's the same as traveling a football field with your eyes closed. 

If you have a passenger, deputize them to handle all communications and check weather conditions for you. Otherwise, keep your phone out of reach; put it in the glove box if you have to. 

Prioritize Rest

It's tempting to push through and get to your destination on time, but drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Some very fatigued drivers may actually fall asleep at the wheel for a few seconds at a time, a phenomenon called "micro sleeps." Fatigue also slows your reaction times and impairs judgment, which may lead you to accidentally cut someone off or fail to notice another motorist's turn signal.

When scheduling your road trip, commit to only driving a few hours at a time. However much time you expect to travel in a day, give yourself another hour, or even two, for breaks. Keep the car cool to stay alert, and drink plenty of cold water. 

Make sure to notice how you're feeling, and don't be afraid to call it a night early. You might consider keeping your reservations flexible so that you can stop ahead of time. Leave a sleeping bag in your car in case you find you're so tired you can't keep going, but there are no hotels within driving distance. Even an hour's nap at a rest stop can make a big difference. 

Know Your Rights If You're Hit

Even with all the preparation in the world, you can't control other drivers. You may still find yourself in a fender bender or even a serious accident, which is why it's crucial to know your legal rights.

A local attorney is a crucial ally, as they are aware of state laws and the local court system. Montana attorneys may not be licensed to practice in the state where you were injured, and they will not be able to coordinate the case from a distance.

For example, if you are driving in Chicago and get into an accident, a rear end car accident lawyer can help you navigate the Circuit Court of Cook County and will know how the Chicago Municipal Code applies to your case. They'll also have local resources like expert witnesses or partnerships with private investigators who can gather valuable evidence.

Delightful as road trips are, they can also be dangerous. Foresight and planning can save you significant heartache as you journey around America's highways. With these considerations in mind, you'll be able to conquer the open road and gain a better appreciation for the United States' many splendors.