Driving to or in Alaska can be fun. But there are road hazards, like icy streets and snow, you should know about.
Alaska is a beautiful state. Wild. Free. Expansive. Many tourists dream for years about driving through our great state. Their trips often become nightmares, due to poor planning and lack of knowledge. Don't let this happen to you!
If you plan to visit Alaska, and drive our highways, there are a few basics that you should be aware of before you start your drive.
Number one,our roads are often under construction. Construction zones cause delays. Call ahead to check for road construction in the spring, summer, and fall. In the winter, avalanches often block major highways. Again, call ahead for road conditions.
Number two, Alaska affords you with many opportunities to view roadside wildlife. Be on guard at all times. A moose is much larger than a deer! Many people who hit moose, lose their lives! Also, if you are going to pull over to photograph wildlife, be certain that you are far enough over on the shoulder to allow other traffic to pass. Locals can get very angry when they have to slam on their brakes to avoid an R.V. that is "gawking" at a moose, mid-lane!
Number three, drive with your headlights on at all times. This is not the law in all areas, but just a good idea.
Number four, have a survival kit in your car. You need to stay warm, dry, and well-fed, if you break down. There are many areas that are secluded and traffic is not always high. Be sure you keep blankets and plenty of fluids available, at the very least.
Number five, beware of frost heaves! These bumps in the road are due to permafrost beneath the roadways. Slow down for these. They can cause damage.
Number six, watch out for rocks. As you drive through Alaska, take a glance at the windshields on Alaskan vehicles. Most are cracked, or shattered. The gravel roads in Alaska are the reason for this. If you travel too closely behind the car in front of you, its tires may fling rocks into your windshield. Do yourself a favor, maintain a safe distance between yourself and other travelers.
Finally, if you are traveling slow and holding up traffic, pull over. It is against the law in Alaska to hold up more than five vehicles because of your speed. This is an important thing to remember. Accidents happen when impatient motorists try passing four and five vehicles at a time. If you are driving slow, and trying to enjoy the scenery, that's great. Just don't expect everyone else to do the same. Be polite, pull over. Some of us live in Alaska and aren't on vacation.
Drive safe and enjoy our great state!
