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While winter driving undoubtedly poses a number of dangers for travelers, the opposite conditions can be equally hazardous. Even in the middle of January, driving along a desolate, dusty stretch of desert road can prove especially challenging to the uninitiated. Here are some car travel tips and car safety tips for surviving a drive on a long desert road.

Car maintenance
Desert driving can be hard on any vehicle, so it's important to make sure your car is in top shape before attempting any lengthy travels - especially in the summertime. Stop in for a tune-up before embarking on your trip and carry plenty of water for your car's radiator, according to CalDrive.com.

Check road conditions
In the event of bad weather, a dirt road can go from bad to worse in no time at all. MojaveRoads.com recommends checking in with local residents or authorities regarding the condition of desert roads before attempting to travel them. You should also inform someone (a friend or relative) about where you're going and when you intend to return in case you get stuck along the way.

Respect private property
While you may not see any signs of civilization for many miles in the desert, MojaveRoads.com reports that you should be extra careful when making scenic detours along a desert road. Much of that land may be private property, and you don't want to accidentally cross into someone's land without permission.