As magical as it may sound, summertime brings an unexpected increase in accidents. It might be shocking, but one witnesses more minor and major crashes in the summer, and the main reason is the warm weather.
A significant number of people tend to travel to far-fetched locations during this season, and with an increased influx of cars on the road, the chances of experiencing collisions also increase.
Therefore, read the following article before making travel plans. It will assist you in comprehending the causes of the increase in accidents as well as how to prevent them.
Understanding the Reasons for Most Summer Crashes
Summertime accidents can occur for multiple reasons, some of which are as follows:
1. Drunk Driving
At pool parties, you socialize with friends and savor unique cuisine and beverages. But some people wind up drinking alcohol, which isn’t good if you’re going to drive home.
According to a Flagstaff DUI Attorney at Aaron Black Law Firm, “Driving under the influence causes a great number of crashes, especially in the summer. It is a serious offense and results in severe consequences for the driver.”
Even if it’s a small amount, try to avoid alcoholic drinks at all costs. A small mistake on your part could cause extreme damage to another and make you end up in court.
2. Underage Drivers
Despite its potential for adventure, teenage driving is risky. Teenagers are more prone to getting sidetracked and have trouble understanding complicated traffic situations.
In such conditions, it’s easy to see more accidents on the road. From an increased presence of teenage drivers to risky behavior, both are detrimental to other drivers during the summer season.
3. Increased Traffic Volume
With moderate temperatures, cars are abundant on the roads, and high-volume traffic means higher congestion. The same destination that once took a few hours might now take an entire day, testing the patience of drivers.
To avoid congestion, some drivers abruptly switch lanes or use the side path, which raises the stakes for potential accidents. Others even use the lane of oncoming cars, which causes fatal crashes.
4. Vehicle Maintenance Issues
Imagine driving on a sunny day at a steady speed, and all of a sudden, a tire blows up. In that moment, you could lose control of your vehicle and cause a disastrous collision.
From the tires to the air conditioning system of your car, the scorching heat can impact several parts. So, be careful at all times and check the condition of each part.
5. Longer Days
Longer daylight hours might provide additional visibility, but that doesn’t curb the accident rate. As more cars are on the road for lengthy periods during the day, accidents are more likely to occur.
Additional time spent on the road also wears out drivers. They may view it as a chance to complete more work, but they experience a poor sleep cycle. In this condition, they are at a higher risk of crashing into another vehicle around them.
6. Vacation Mindset
Since summertime means vacations, most people have a very relaxed attitude. Yet this attitude, when extended to driving behavior, can lead to a lapse in focus and a severe accident.
You might be in a good mood because it’s your day off, and might think of changing the radio or admiring the scenery, but these things cause you to lose attention from the road. As it’s already summer and there is more traffic around you, this is no time to let your mind roam freely.
The carefree attitude is great at home, but not when travelling on a busy highway.
Saving Yourself from Harm During Summers
Being careful on roads and highways is extremely important, and one should always keep in mind to:
1. Prepare your Vehicle Beforetime
Another thing to keep in mind is the condition of your car. From your tires to the fluid levels of your car, inspect each and everything. With a well-maintained vehicle, your chances of facing a crash or collision are at a bare minimum. If possible, ask a professional to inspect your car before the temperature rises.
2. Be More Cautious
There are certain rules to follow when being in the driver’s seat. Start by avoiding lane changes and travelling on overly crowded roads. Apart from these, always keep a safe distance from other cars. That way, you have enough time to save yourself.
3. Be Careful about Teenage Drivers
It’s not a good idea to let your teenager handle the vehicle on a busy highway. Let them first take an official driving test, and once they get their license, they can drive as much as they want to.
Conclusion
You can remain safe if you are properly informed about the causes of significant auto accidents. Indeed, surviving through extreme traffic on roads during summer is difficult but not impossible. Just opt for preventive measures, and you’re good to go.
