Horse Trailer Driving Safety Athletes Travel Cowgirl Magazine

Athletes know that regardless of the sport they participate in, the most dangerous part of their day involves traveling to and from competitions.

A recent heartbreaking accident involving the Humboldt Broncos, a Canadian hockey team, was a sobering reminder for athletes around the world.

Drivers, take some time out of your day to read these tips on how to be mindful on the road.

1) Be aware of your surroundings: Always be aware of what is happening around you. Is there a horse trailer ahead that you should pay attention to? Is there a bus traveling down the road that you should be aware of? It’s important to always expect the unexpected on the road.

2) Put the phone down: The second that you take your eyes off the road and look at your phone screen, you’re endangering the lives of everyone who is driving close to you. It takes less than a second to swerve into another lane.

3) Space is key: This is important. Most athletes arrive to events in a bus. People in the horse world drive trucks and pull trailers behind them. These vehicles can’t break the way that the standard car can. Give them plenty of room.

4) Your state of mind is important: Did you know that driving while tired is considered driving impaired? The state of mind you’re in when you drive is crucial to being a defensive and safe driver.

5) No one likes a speeder: Part of being a respectful driver, is to abide by the speed limit. In the case of an unforeseen situation on the road, there’s much more time to react at a slower speed.

6) Think ahead: What time of day will you be driving? Do you need sunglasses? Is there rain in the forecast? Do your windshield wipers work? These details might sound minor, but don’t underestimate their importance.

Comment below and let us know how you stay mindful on the road.

If you’d like to help support the families who lost a loved one in the Humboldt Broncos accident, click here.