Most drivers know about the dangers of driving in the winter. However, not too many know about the risks that come with summer driving. For instance, August tends to have the highest amount of fatal accidents each year. Knowing what these risks are can help you better prepare and stay safe…
Summer Driving: Possible Risks
Heavier construction
Due to the better weather, a lot of road construction takes place during the summer. This means you’re going to be doing a lot of summer driving in construction zones. Here, not only are the construction workers themselves at risk, but you have to be careful about other drivers as well.
Usually, construction work causes drivers to funnel into one or two lanes. Keep this in mind and get over ahead of time so you don’t have to make last-second adjustments. Be sure to watch your speed as well. Aside from being dangerous to those working, speeding in a construction zone can come with some hefty fines.
Tire blowouts
Another thing to watch for during summer driving are tire blowouts. Tires tend to expand more than usual in the summer because of the heat. As a result, it’s easier for them to pop or blowout, especially after hitting something sharp.
Therefore, it’s good to do a walkaround of your car before you head out. This will let you check each tire and see if they look right. If not, then you know you’ll want to adjust the air pressure before driving. You should also make sure to keep the backup tire in your car should you need to use it!
Sharing the road
Other drivers won’t be the only thing you have to worry about on the road when you do your summer driving. In fact, you’ll probably see a lot more cyclists and motorcyclists out than at any other time of the year. Plus, if you live in a city or town, you can expect to see more pedestrians walking as well.
You’ll want to make sure that you always keep an eye out for cyclists and motorcyclists and give them plenty of space. Don’t try to pass cyclists unless it’s safe to do so, no matter how much you hate having to go slow behind them. As for pedestrians, be sure you take extra caution at crosswalks and always make sure it’s clear before you drive through.