Summer Safety: Summer Car Accidents
Car accidents peak over the summer months, and there are many reasons for this that we will cover. August actually has the highest number of fatal accidents every year, and in 2013 3,136 accidents were experienced alone! You may wonder why the numbers are so high and what causes these terrible accidents, sometimes taking lives.
Reasons for Summer Car Accidents
Teen Drivers: Sorry, teens. More teen drivers on the road sometimes equates to more accidents due to driver inexperience. This can lead to questionable judgment, which sometimes ends in an accident. Teens are actually more inclined to be involved in an accident than any other age group.
Vacation Drivers: Because of drivers on vacation, there is more congestion clogging the roadways. Congested roads make harder driving conditions and potential for road rage. You may be cut off in line, which can end in an accident. Some vacationing drivers are unfamiliar with the roadways and may cause an accident while navigating.
Tire Blowouts: Hot weather can cause the air inside your tires to expand, which may lead to a blow-out. You should always check your tires on a regular basis to avoid this.
Construction: Road construction is most likely during the summer months. In just 2007 through 2012, 669 driving fatalities took place due to construction zones. This is why you should always take precautions when you are driving through a construction zone.
Bicycles and Motorcycles: Bicyclists and motorcyclists love enjoying the warm weather in the summer months. People sharing the roadways with vehicle drivers could spell out more accidents, however. In 2013, 741 cyclists were reported to be involved in fatal accidents.
Excess Heat: You could become dehydrated on the road if you are not constantly drinking water to stay refreshed. You may also increase the chance of accidentally overheating your engine, which is why you should always be prepared for these events.
Important Summer Driving Safety Tips
There are always some tips for you to keep in mind to protect yourself and keep yourself safe from a summer driving accident. Here are some of the ways that you can protect yourself while on the roadways:
- Always keep your keys safe and dry.
- Remember that, if your tires are already damaged or the wrong pressure, you could increase the likelihood of a blowout.
- Replace tires if they show any signs of cracking in the sidewall or tread grooves.
- Reduce the effect of a glare by keeping your windscreen nice and clean and always replacing your wipers when necessary.
- Take a short nap if you are feeling tired on the road.
- Take many breaks to avoid becoming tired in the first place.
- Make sure that you are never taking medication that could cause drowsiness.
- Do not throw your cigarette out of the window after it is completed. This could ignite roadside grass and cause a fire.
- Always slow down if you come across a spillage. You could damage your car or become involved in an accident.
Staying safe this summer is of utmost importance. But how can you avoid car accidents? Follow these accidents and keep an eye out for road hazards at any cost. Call us today if you need help with your personal injury case. At Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, we have the experience necessary to handle your case and will be there for you.
