Summer is a prime time for road trips, family vacations, and outdoor adventures. The warm weather and longer days make it ideal for traveling, but they also bring unique challenges to driving. Research indicates that nearly 10 percent more distracted driving occurs in the summer, compared to other seasons. To help ensure you and your passengers stay safe during your summer travels, be aware of the challenges and adopt practices that mitigate risk and prevent hazards.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Check your tire pressure prior to and during your trip, as hot weather can cause tire pressure to increase, potentially leading to blowouts. Make sure your tires, including the spare, have adequate tread depth and are free of damage. Have your brakes inspected, as well, to confirm they are in good condition. Effective brakes are crucial for safe stopping, especially in heavy summer traffic.
It’s also important to check all essential fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Keeping these at optimal levels helps prevent overheating and other mechanical issues. Inspect your battery for corrosion and ensure it is securely mounted. If your battery is more than three years old, consider having it tested. Additionally, make sure your air conditioning system is functioning correctly to prevent driver fatigue and maintain focus.
Protect against the Heat
Dehydration and heat exhaustion can impair your driving ability, so keep a supply of water in the car and drink regularly. Use sunshades to keep your car cool when parked and wear light, breathable clothing. If you feel overheated, take a break in a shaded or air-conditioned area.
Plan Your Route
Planning your route in advance can help you avoid unexpected delays and unsafe situations. Use navigation apps to check real-time traffic and weather conditions and avoid traveling during peak hours or severe weather conditions when possible. Plan for regular breaks to rest, stretch, and hydrate. Aim to stop every two hours or every 100 miles to avoid fatigue.
Drive Defensively
Summer brings an increase in traffic, including inexperienced teen drivers, vacationers unfamiliar with the area, and motorcyclists. Adopt defensive driving habits to stay safe. Maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you to allow ample time for stopping. Be vigilant and give motorcycles and bicycles plenty of space. Also, mind your driving speed, as speeding reduces your reaction time and increases the severity of accidents. Adhere to posted speed limits, especially in construction zones and residential areas.
Moreover, avoid distracted driving, which is a leading cause of accidents. Refrain from using your phone, eating, or engaging in other activities that take your attention off the road.
Be Cautious of Summer-Specific Hazards
Summer driving comes with its own set of hazards. Road construction is common during the summer months, so slow down in construction zones, obey posted signs, and be prepared for sudden stops. Wildlife is also more active during the summer, so be especially cautious in rural areas and during dawn and dusk when animals are most active. The sun’s glare can reduce visibility. Wear polarized sunglasses, use your sun visor, and keep your windshield clean to minimize glare.
Summer storms are another potential danger, as they can occur suddenly and create hazardous driving conditions. Slow down, turn on your headlights, and increase your following distance during rain and thunderstorms. If visibility is severely reduced, pull over safely until the storm passes.
Ensure Passenger Safety
If you’re traveling with passengers, especially children, their safety is paramount. Ensure all passengers wear seat belts at all times. Young children should be in appropriate car seats or booster seats. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, as temperatures inside can rise rapidly and become deadly. Always take your children and pets with you instead. Long trips can be tedious for passengers, so bring books, games, and electronic devices to keep them occupied and reduce distractions to the driver.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Despite careful planning, emergencies can happen. Have a list of emergency contacts and roadside assistance numbers readily available. Carry an emergency kit with essentials such as a first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, jumper cables, basic tools, and non-perishable snacks. If your vehicle breaks down, pull over safely and stay with it. Use hazard lights, flares, or reflective triangles to alert other drivers.
Being aware of your surroundings and your location can expedite assistance in case of an emergency. Stay informed about road conditions and listen to local news for updates on traffic and weather reports. Driving while tired is dangerous, so share driving responsibilities if possible and get plenty of rest before your trip.
Prioritize Safety and Awareness
Safe driving during summer travel requires preparation, awareness, and vigilance. With these tips, you can make the most of your summer travels while keeping safety a priority.