Over half of Czech travelers plan to reach their summer destinations by car or caravan, yet only 57 percent perform technical vehicle checks before departing, according to recent survey data. Experts warn that failing to inspect tires, brakes, and fluid levels before long-distance travel significantly increases the risk of mechanical failure and road accidents during the peak holiday season.
Why Vehicle Maintenance Matters Before Long Trips
A vehicle loaded with passengers, luggage, and roof boxes behaves differently than a standard commuter car. Roman Budský, a transport expert from Vize 0, states that drivers often prioritize packing documents and sunscreen while neglecting the mechanical integrity of the vehicle meant to transport the entire family. Proper tire pressure adjustment is essential to maintain handling, as is checking brake fluid levels. According to Budský, these components are the primary defense against unexpected mechanical failures, which currently worry 46 percent of potential travelers.
How to Manage Driver Fatigue and Safety
Fatigue and micro-sleep are identified as the greatest risks of long-distance travel by 53 percent of survey respondents. Despite this awareness, 43 percent of drivers—and 76 percent of men specifically—plan to complete their journey without switching drivers. Budský emphasizes that neither energy drinks nor open windows compensate for sleep. He recommends stopping every two to three hours to stretch and hydrate, noting that some drivers wait up to four hours, or even until their fuel tank is empty, before taking a necessary break.
What Are the Legal Risks of International Road Travel?
Travelers must research specific traffic laws in their destination countries to avoid heavy fines or license revocation. For example, Polish authorities have introduced stricter penalties for “unjustified slow driving” or other forms of traffic obstruction. In Croatia, police may retain a driver’s license if they determine the operator is too fatigued to drive safely. These regulations highlight the importance of verifying local requirements—such as mandatory safety vest counts or the need for spare prescription glasses—before leaving home.
Comparing Travel Risks and Behaviors
| Risk Factor | Percentage of Concern |
|---|---|
| Technical Vehicle Failure | 46% |
| Heavy Traffic | 41% |
| Fatigue and Micro-sleep | 53% |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I stop during a long drive?
Experts recommend stopping at least every two to three hours to stretch, hydrate, and assess your alertness.
Is it enough to have my documents on my phone?
No. While digital documents are increasingly common, it is essential to carry physical copies of your driver’s license, registration, and insurance papers when traveling abroad.
What is the biggest risk for drivers on long summer trips?
According to survey data, 53 percent of drivers cite fatigue and micro-sleep as the most significant hazards on the road.
Planning a road trip this summer? Share your tips for staying alert behind the wheel in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for more travel safety guides and expert advice.