Drive Safe This Summer

 

Summer is finally here and many of us are planning to travel more frequently.  Each year we eagerly look forward to summertime family vacations and extended road trips.  What with an increase in traffic and a lot more road construction, sometimes a driver’s patience can wear thin but there are good reasons to keep our cool.

One of the curious things about driving in the summer is people can tend to let down their guard after driving through ice and snow all winter long and become somewhat lax about safety.  Statistics show that traffic accidents actually increase over the summer months despite better driving conditions.  So other than running into more congestion on the roads, why is there an increase in traffic accidents?

Some of the reasons may be the type of drivers, vehicles, and conditions on the road.  Summertime brings out more bicycle and motorcycle riders.  Teenagers, who are at higher risk for accidents are now out of school and on the road more frequently.  Road construction can also leads to accidents so drivers need to use caution and follow posted speeds. 

Safercar.gov urges drivers to start a road trip with a vehicle that is up-to-date on all required maintenance and repairs.  Drivers should do a visual inspection of the vehicle before starting out that includes checking tire pressure and wear, lights, wiper blades, and fluid levels.  They recommend that all children 13 years and younger ride in the backseat.  Only use car seats and booster seats that are appropriate for the age of the child and see to it that they are properly installed.     

Drivers need to be especially vigilant for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists during the warmer weather.  Watch out for small children when in parking lots, campgrounds, and other family style activities.  Finally remember to stay sober when driving.  There are 32 alcohol related accidents every day in the U.S.

Sources:  http://www.safercar.gov/summerdrivingtips

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