Drive out and rave on: tips from IAM RoadSmart

It’s that time of the year to bring out your wellies, rain capes and lose yourself in the music because the summer festival season is here. This week’s tips give advice on riding and driving to and from festivals from IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman.

• Pack for success and for the worst. This may mean reducing the amount of clothes you carry for extra food or even water bottles.The last thing you want to be is stranded with little or no supplies

   

• None for the road. IAM RoadSmart recommends a no alcohol whilst driving policy. If you do plan on drinking we suggest having a designated driver. Someone who is going to have no drinks until arrival and the nominated person driving back has no drinks for at least 24 hours.Make sure a one year ban and heavy fine is not the main lasting memento you take back from the festival

   

• Crashes due to fatigue are very common.No sleep or a few snatched hours in a soaking tent is not the best preparation for a long drive or ride home.If you feel tired then stay for as long as you can to recharge those batteries before you drive

• Set off early to ensure you don’t get caught up in to queues arriving or leaving the festivals. Delays and bad weather can lead to road rage – not the kind of karma you want on route to a ‘chill festival’

   

• Lock em up! If you are unfamiliar with the place or setting in general make sure you secure your vehicle, cleaning off any sat nav ring marks and hiding noticeable valuables

Richard said: “Festivals are about fun, great music and new experiences.  If you can take public transport then do so – festivals often offer bus and rail tickets and free park and ride.  If you must drive remember that no matter how great you feel, the law is the law and driving drugged, drunk or tired will ruin everyone’s summer”