Going to away games is a big part of the high school experience, but if you’re a new driver, the journey can be just as important as the game itself. The thrill of hitting the road can quickly fade if you’re not properly prepared. So, it’s important to take a few extra steps to make sure you’re ready to hit the road with confidence and get to the big game safely. Start with these six tips.
Always Put Safety First
When you’re driving to an away game, safety should always be your top priority. It might seem simple, but the basics are key. Start with seat belts — everyone in the car should be buckled up before you even turn the key. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, teens are the least likely to wear seatbelts, and in 2022, 50% of teen drivers who died in car crashes weren’t buckled up. It's a quick and simple move that can make a big difference.
Also, stick to the speed limit and be mindful of road conditions, especially when you’re driving in unfamiliar areas. And remember to drive defensively. Stay aware of other drivers, anticipate their actions, and avoid distractions like texting or adjusting the radio. If you’re driving friends to the game, make sure they understand some ground rules for being a safe passenger — including avoiding horseplay and loud conversations.
Plan Your Route and Timing Like a Pro
Before hitting the road, take a few minutes to plan your route. Use a reliable GPS app like Google Maps or Waze. Make sure to double-check the directions ahead of time — especially if you’re heading to a stadium or school you haven’t been to before. This way, you can familiarize yourself with the route and spot any potential detours.
Giving yourself plenty of extra time to reach the game is just as important. Traffic, construction, or even a wrong turn can slow you down. By planning to leave early, you’ll avoid the rush and have time to focus on getting to the field safely without the added pressure of a ticking clock.
Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Prepared
Before heading out, take a few minutes to check that your car is game-day ready. A quick look at your tire pressure, oil level, and fuel gauge can help you avoid problems. No one wants to deal with a flat tire or an empty gas tank when you’re racing to make kickoff.
It’s also smart to pack an emergency kit, just in case. Include essentials like a spare tire, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. While you hope you won’t need them, having these items on hand means you’ll be prepared for any bumps in the road.
Avoid Common Mishaps
Even with the best preparation, things can still go wrong on the way to the big game. Here are some common issues new drivers might face, and how to avoid them:
Running out of gas: Always fill up your tank before hitting the road. If you’re driving a longer distance, plan out fuel stops along the way.
Getting lost: Before leaving, double-check your GPS and review the directions. If it’s possible you might lose your signal, download offline maps or print out directions as a backup.
Traffic delays: Keep an eye on traffic alerts and adjust your route if needed. If you run into heavy traffic, be patient and stay alert.
Car trouble: Prior to hitting the road, double-check that you have a spare tire, a jack, and jumper cables.
Know What to Do When the Unexpected Happens
When you run into trouble on the road, the most important thing is to stay calm. If you have car trouble or a flat tire, put on your signal and pull over into a safe spot. Turn on your hazard lights, and stay in your vehicle if it’s safe to do so. Then, call roadside assistance or someone you trust for help. Don’t forget to reach out to your coach and parents to let them know what’s happening and get guidance about what to do next.
If you get lost, don’t try to look up directions while you’re driving. Instead, pull over into a safe place and check your GPS or map. Take your time to figure out the correct route instead of rushing to get back on track. If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to call someone for help.
Build Confidence with a Test Drive
Confidence behind the wheel comes with practice, and one of the best ways to prepare for driving to an away game is to do a practice run before the big day. This will help you get familiar with the directions and traffic patterns.
Drive the route a couple of times with a parent. It can make a huge difference on game day because you'll know exactly where to go without feeling nervous about the drive.
Stay Prepared, Stay Safe
Preparation is key to making sure that driving to away games is as smooth and stress-free as possible. By planning ahead, practicing safe driving habits, and knowing how to handle unexpected situations, you can hit the road with confidence.
If you want to sharpen your driving skills even more, consider one of Aceable’s driver's ed courses. They're a great way to learn advanced safety techniques so you’re fully prepared for anything the road throws your way.
Updated 10/17/2024