Little known Summer Driving Hazards that Lead to Car Accidents
We know that weather conditions change from season to season and that means that road conditions and other car accident risk factors change as well. Many associate snow and ice with increased risk of traffic accidents, and there is truth in the association, but what about summer driving hazards? People may be surprised to learn that according to the highway safety advocate group, We Save Lives, and a 24-year study of traffic accidents conducted by the NHTSA, there are 29 percent more deaths in the summer months as there are in the winter months. This is for a variety of known reasons, including road trips and more cyclists and motorcyclists on the road. Today we are going to talk about some of the less known reasons that car accident fatalities increase in the summer.
Little known summer driving hazards that lead to car accidents
According to everquote.com, these are some of the driving hazards to avoid this summer:
- Glare from the sun
We know that the summer brings more sunlight (especially in the morning and mid-day), and much longer daylight hours in northern states like Washington State. If you can’t see properly because the sun is beaming into your eyes then you are at an increased risk for a car accident.
- Construction zones
Anyone who lives in a climate with cold, snowy/wet winters knows that most road construction is reserved for the summer. This means the potential for road rage, debris on the road or hitting your vehicle, and crashes from people driving too fast in construction zones.
- Tire blowouts
An underinflated tire leads to too much friction, which can eventually lead to a tire blowout. This is extra likely in the summer when you add heat to the equation. In addition, tires can become damaged when rolling through construction zones if they pick up a nail or other sharp object before heading onto the freeway.
- Overheating and dehydration
Without the proper fluids, both vehicles and people are more likely to overheat in the hot summer weather. While it is rare for an overheated engine to burst into flames, it will increase the temperatures of fluids like oil and coolant. If those fluids spill throughout the engine bay, they could ignite a fire.
- Drowsy driving
A long summer day at the beach or park or late-night partying can lead to drowsiness, especially when alcohol is involved. Don’t risk a car accident if you are drowsy. Choose to stay overnight or take a nap before heading back on the road.
Summer is here and brings a carefree feeling that we all look forward to. We share these tips with you so that you can be aware of the hazards to avoid this summer. If you do end up the victim of a car accident…
Seek the help of a car accident attorney
If you or a loved one was injured because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
