Fatigue
Clause 2.7 of the Russian traffic rules bans driving while fatigued to a degree that endangers traffic safety. Yawning, heavy eyelids and missed signs mean it's time to pull over and rest.
Safety
Safety: how to make it to the end of a long trip
On a long trip the main risk isn't a tricky stretch of road but built-up fatigue and the habit of "holding out a little longer." Safety here comes down to simple things: rest, belts in every seat, properly packed luggage and a willingness to wait out bad weather.
The most dangerous thought on a long drive is "we're almost there." Toward the end of a trip, attention slips especially easily.
We cite only requirements written directly into the Russian traffic rules, with clause numbers. Rules in other countries differ — check your local traffic code. Everything else is a recommendation, not law.
Six basics of a safe long trip
Rules and habits that matter at every stage of the journey.
Seat belts
Under clause 2.1.2 of the Russian traffic rules, the driver must wear a seat belt and must not carry passengers who aren't buckled up. On a long drive that includes anyone sleeping in the back seat.
Cargo
Section 23 of the Russian traffic rules requires cargo to be placed and secured so that it doesn't block the driver's view, hinder control or affect the car's stability. Heavy items low, small items in closed compartments.
Kids
Clause 22.9 of the Russian traffic rules: under 7, only in a child restraint suited to weight and height; from 7 to 11 inclusive, in a restraint or with seat belts; in the front seat, only in a child restraint.
Weather
Downpours, fog, ice and strong wind call for lower speed and a bigger following distance. If visibility disappears, it's sometimes wiser to wait it out in a safe place than to keep going.
Night
In the dark the road tires you faster, and oncoming headlights dazzle. Late evening and the hours before dawn are when drowsiness hits hardest, so it's better not to plan long night stretches.
The rhythm of a long trip
It helps to agree with yourself on breaks in advance: for example, stop every couple of hours, get out of the car, walk around a bit and drink some water. A short planned break is better than a forced stop when you can barely keep your eyes open.
Don't plan a whole day behind the wheel. A reasonable daily leg leaves time for meals, rest and unexpected delays, and the evening for a good night's sleep before the next day.
If you can take turns driving, agree on it before you leave. The person in the passenger seat can also help spot signs of fatigue and keep an eye on the map so the driver isn't distracted.
Read next
- Faults
Overheating, a flat tire, a dead battery and warning lights on a long drive: the signs that tell you it's not safe to keep going.
- Preparation
What to check yourself before a long drive and what to have a shop look at ahead of time: pressure, tread, fluids, lights, wipers and the spare.
- FAQ
Short answers about this guide, about getting ready for a long trip, and about how to handle yourself on the road, in general terms.
Sources
- Russian traffic rules (official text)
- Your car's owner's manual (in general terms)
- Road safety materials (in general terms)
The Russian traffic rules are summarized from the official text in force when this page was prepared, and rules change from time to time. Cars differ too, so before a trip check the current version of the rules and your own car's owner's manual.