Summer is finally here, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably already got plans.
Maybe you’re driving to the beach.
Maybe you’re heading to a festival.
Maybe it’s a weekend away with friends.
Or maybe you’ve just passed your test and this is your first proper road trip.
Whatever you’re doing, this weekend is the first of three big traffic operations organised by Spain’s DGT because millions of people will be travelling at the same time.
That’s a lot of cars.
A lot of motorbikes.
A lot of campers.
A lot of people trying to get somewhere nice.
And that means we all need a little more patience.
One thing I always remind myself is that the journey is part of the holiday.
If you’re stressed before you’ve even arrived, something’s gone wrong.
Leave a bit earlier.
Accept that traffic jams happen.
Take breaks.
Drink water.
Swap drivers if you can.
Most importantly…
Don’t let one bad decision ruin everyone’s weekend.
Just because you feel OK doesn’t mean you are
One drink.
One joint.
One pill someone says is “fine”.
They’re all capable of affecting how you drive.
People often think they know their limits.
The problem is that alcohol changes your judgement before you even realise it.
That’s why my advice is really simple.
If I’m driving, I’m drinking absolutely nothing.
Zero.
Not “just one”.
Not “I’ll be alright.”
Just zero.
That way I never have to wonder whether I’m safe.
Look after everyone else too
Summer roads are shared with cyclists, motorcyclists, pedestrians and families who may not know the area.
A little patience can prevent a lifetime of regret.
I’d much rather arrive twenty minutes late than never arrive at all.
Have an amazing summer.
Just make sure it ends with everyone getting home safely.
— Riley