First of all, if you decide to just stay home, there will be extensive television and cyber coverage:

• NASA is geared up to cover the eclipse online. Viewers around the world will be provided a wealth of images captured before, during, and after the eclipse by 11 spacecraft, at least three NASA aircraft, more than 50 high-altitude balloons, and the astronauts aboard the International Space Station – each offering a unique vantage point for the celestial event.

A really good resource is The Great American Eclipse, with videos, maps and extensive information about the eclipse.

If you must be on the road, or just decide to go for a drive, here are some things to think about.

During the total eclipse of 1918, the chances of dying in an eclipse-related auto accident were pretty low.

That isn’t the case in 2024. There are millions more cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, and their drivers aren’t always paying attention to the task of driving. The eclipse is just one more distraction we have to worry about on April 8.

First of all, If you’re thinking about heading out that morning and driving into the path of totality, think again. Thousands of other people will have that idea, and they will most likely all be stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic. If you’re traveling, make sure that you keep the gas tank filled, stock up on water and food, be prepared for on-the-road emergencies, and know where you’re going.

Helpful Hints:

• Don’t look at the eclipse while driving

There are more ways to drive distracted than ever, what with drivers sending text messages, checking email or the local news while driving down the interstate. Really don’t do it. If you really want to view the eclipse – while wearing your solar filter glasses – do it from a safe (stationary) place.

• Don’t pull over on the side of the highway to watch the eclipse

There are many highways in the eclipse viewing area, and it is expected to last for just a few minutes, which means the temptation for you to just pull over for a couple of minutes and take a peek will be strong. Don’t. If you’re standing on the side of an interstate staring up at the sky, and some other guy is leaning out his window to watch while his car has wandered onto the shoulder – you get the picture.

• There will be more pedestrians than usual — try not to run them down

Motorists may think they’ve stumbled upon a mob of zombies, staring up at the sky and not paying attention to where they are walking. You must avoid contact while driving your car if at all possible.

• Turn on your headlights

During a total solar eclipse, day suddenly becomes night. Don’t rely on your car’s automatic lights, position the sun visor to block your view of the Sun, and don’t wear eclipse-appropriate eye wear while driving. You’ll look stupid, and you really cannot see anything with them on except the Sun.

• Watch out for construction

Construction season begins in most states in the path of the eclipse. That means more orange barrels, cones and sudden lane changes that pose a risk to drivers who aren’t paying attention – and to construction workers who may be in their path.