Summer is a great time to wear shorts and flip-flops, head to the beach or pool, take vacations, and prep your car for warm-weather driving. Even though summer is filled with fun outdoor activities, there are some hazards. Here are some helpful tips for avoiding a car accident this summer.
Car Maintenance
If you have not done so recently, schedule your car for a regular maintenance check and oil change and make any necessary repairs.
You will also want to check your tire pressure because the hot weather can make the air inside them expand, which can lead to a tire blowout. On the other hand, low pressure eats up more gas and affects car handling. Look at your tire treads too since bald tires can also cause crashes.
First Aid Kit
It is also a wise idea to have a first aid kit in your car at all times. You can buy a complete one, or you can look on the American Red Cross website to see what should be included.
A well-stocked emergency car kit will have medical supplies as well as water bottles and non-perishable foods. Also, add some sunscreen, bug spray, raincoats, umbrellas, and a flashlight with extra batteries. Other items you should have in your car are road flares, jumper cables, a tool kit, jumper cables, and extra phone chargers.
Watch Out for New and Out-of-Town Drivers
Every season presents driving hazards, but some are much more prevalent in the summer, such as newly-licensed teenagers. There is a higher potential for teen-related crashes to happen since these drivers have less experience and school is out for the summer. Parents should take the time to frequently discuss safe driving and accident prevention with their teenagers.
Out-of-town drivers can also be dangerous in the summer. These drivers do not know the local traffic patterns and routes.
Prepare for Road Construction and Delays
Summer is also the time for highway and road construction, so be on the lookout for new traffic patterns and slowdowns. You will also likely encounter heavy traffic on weekends and summer holidays, and it can be aggravating. Try to stay patient, and be alert for drivers who act aggressively. Maintain a safe distance from their vehicles, and do your best to avoid getting angry as well. If your GPS shows an alternate route to circumvent construction or traffic, take it.
Stay Away From Drunk Drivers
You might also see more intoxicated drivers this summer. Signs that a driver may be drunk include:
- Drifting in and out of lanes and swerving.
- Suddenly stopping for no reason.
- Quick accelerations and decelerations.
- Narrowly missing a crash with another car, curb, or object.
- Tailgating.
- Driving too slowly.
- Abrupt, unexpected maneuvers.
- Forgetting to turn on headlights at night.
- Slow responses to traffic signals and signs.
The best advice is to stay away from these drivers. If you see an erratic driver, you should report them to the police.
Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is a year-round problem. You can take steps to prevent losing focus on the road, and the first one is to put away your cellphone. The temptation to answer calls, text, and use the internet is strong, so putting it on Do Not Disturb mode and stashing it away is the safest decision.
If you are concerned about missing important messages, schedule in a few stops during your trip to respond to any that come in. Before you answer your phone, pull over to a safe location.
Be Well-Rested
It is also wise to take regular breaks on long trips to use the facilities, grab some coffee, let your pet go outside, or enjoy a quick meal. If other passengers are along for the drive, have them share in the driving responsibilities. Remember, fatigue can be just as dangerous as drunkenness.
Media Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello Can Fight for Your Rights After a Summertime Accident
Even the most vigilant driver can end up in a serious accident. If you have been injured in a summertime car accident, speak with our Media car accident lawyer at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello. Call us at (610) 892-4940 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Media, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Lancaster, Montgomery County, Norristown, Philadelphia, Reading, and West Chester.