Do you know how many people die in road traffic accidents every year? 1.9 million. And considering that touring musicians spend far more hours behind the wheel than the average driver… You do the math.
We’re not trying to scare you, it’s just that the reality is, well, pretty scary. And it’s good to know the facts – it’s the only way you can be prepared.
The good news is, there are plenty of things you can do before your tour to either avoid or at least be better prepared for roadside emergencies. Gear damage and theft are real concerns as well, of course, so we’ll cover that aspect as well.
The Touring Artist’s Road-Safety Checklist
1. Driver rotation & sleep scheduling
Let’s start with the basics because they matter the most: do not drive when you’re exhausted. We repeat: do not drive when you’re exhausted! Whenever possible, have fresh eyes at the wheel.
Lay out your driving schedule so no one stays behind a steering wheel for more than, say, four hours at a stretch. You should also have mandated breaks: stop every 2 hours for 15 minutes, minimum. If wakefulness becomes a challenge, hold off and have a short nap.
2. Van maintenance before every departure
You don’t want your van to break down in the middle of nowhere, so maintenance is a must. Do this every time. Just quick checks of tire pressure, fluid levels, lights, wipers, and double-check the lug nuts.
A loose wheel on the highway can be potentially life-ending, so take this advice very seriously. Also, get a mechanical inspection before the tour.
3. Safe gear loading
Your gear can become projectiles. So secure heavy and sharp items low in the van and use internal straps or netting.
Even small items shift in a crash. If you allow gear movement, it might go airborne—in your face.
4. Winter routing
Plan for black ice, slick roads, sudden weather shifts. Avoid steep, icy roads or sparsely serviced highways whenever possible. If a detour adds 30 minutes but stays on well-maintained roads, take it.
Modern mapping tools are good, but cross-check with weather and DOT alerts.
5. Insurance basics
Liability insurance is the bare minimum. You also need cover for instruments, medical expenses, and accidents.
If someone’s handling your gear or you’re depending on a promoter’s transport, verify their coverage. Your instruments count as cargo.
6. Emergency-kit essentials
Here’s what we recommend you always have with you: jumper cables, reflective triangles, a strong flashlight with spare batteries, first-aid kit, blankets or warm clothing, flares or LED beacons, and a phone charger that fits your vehicle.
Make sure to also keep the whole set easily accessible. That roadside mishap won’t wait while you rummage in the back.
7. Venue-side parking strategy
Pull in wide, park where you can back out easily; moved gear or sudden departures shouldn’t mean tight reversals.
Also, keep your rig loaded defensively, not hung-up next to a curb or tight loading dock.
8. Sober-driving policy
Drivers must stay sober; not just legally but mentally alert. Hangovers count too.
Avoid wine-down rituals before long drives. Rotate drivers such that if one had a late night, someone fresh handles the drive. That’s responsibility.
After a Collision: Quick Actions That Matter
If the worst happens, you’ll need clarity and composure. First, check for injuries. Call 911 or local emergency services. Document the scene: photos of damage, skid marks, arms of collision, positions of vehicles. Get witness names and contact info.
Treat economic and non-economic damages seriously. Economic includes medical bills, van or gear repair, lost income from cancelled shows. Non-economic includes pain and suffering. Have medical documentation immediately. Even a minor neck strain can balloon into something serious later, so paper trail matters.
If you’re touring through Columbia, Missouri, you’d search for personal injury support there. Also, contact local authorities promptly and let them know you’re part of a touring act. If you can’t continue driving safely, call roadside service (AAA or local equivalent). Get gear secured, if you can, before towing or transport.
Scalable Tour-Safety Plan at a Glance
Pre-tour:
- Mechanical check
- Insurance, emergency-kit ready
- Route mapped, weather vetted
On the road:
- Rotate drivers; enforce breaks
- Monitor speed and traffic
- Enforce sober policy
Daily setup:
- Load gear smart
- Park thoughtfully
If you’re in a crash:
- Prioritize safety and medical help
- Document thoroughly
- Get “personal injury support”
- Handle insurance
And please remember, a mere 10 km/h speed reduction cuts fatal accidents by about 37%, and injury accidents by about 24%. So drive slowly and responsibly!
