12 Essential Summers Driving Tips You Need to Know
Summer is the perfect time to hit the open road and explore. However, before you do, it’s important to brush up on your summer driving safety skills.
Use these tips to stay safe on the roads this summer.
1. Check your tires:
Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread. This will help you avoid a blowout and keep your car handling well in hot weather conditions.
2. Watch for animals:
Summertime is when wildlife is most active, so be extra cautious when driving in areas where animals are known to cross roads. Deer, for example, are most active at dawn and dusk, so use extra caution during those times of day.
3. Don’t drive drowsy:
Warm weather can make you feel sleepy, so it’s important to get a good night’s sleep before hitting the road. If you’re feeling tired while driving, pull over at a safe location and take a nap.
4. Avoid distracted driving:
With beautiful weather come more distractions. Don’t let things like your phone, passengers, or scenery take your focus off the road?
5. Increase following distance:
Hot weather means increased traffic and slower speeds. Allow yourself extra time to get to your destination by increasing your following distance. This will give you more time to react if someone cuts in front of you or suddenly stops.
6. Be aware of construction zones:
Summer is a popular time for road construction. Be prepared for lane closures, detours, and workers in these areas. Slow down and obey all posted signs and signals.
7. Don’t tailgate:
Tailgating not only puts you at risk of rear-ending the car in front of you, but it also increases your chances of getting pulled over by law enforcement. Keep a safe following distance to avoid both of these hazards.
8. Yield to emergency vehicles:
If you see an ambulance, fire truck or police car with its lights on, yield to the right and allow them to pass. If you’re in a traffic jam, move to the right side of the road to let them through.
9. Don’t speed:
Speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents, so it’s important to obey the posted speed limit. In addition to avoiding accidents, you’ll also avoid costly speeding tickets.
10. Check your blind spots:
Before changing lanes, always check your mirrors and look over your shoulder to make sure there are no cars in your blind spot.
11. Use your headlights:
In addition to helping you see at night, headlights also make you more visible to other drivers during the day. Use them whenever visibility is reduced, such as during rainstorms or when driving in fog.
12. Buckle up:
This one should be a no-brainer, but it’s still worth mentioning. Always wear your seatbelt, and make sure all passengers are buckled up as well.
Following these tips will help you stay safe on the roads this summer. Remember to always drive defensively and be prepared for anything. With a little extra caution, you can enjoy a fun and accident-free summer driving season.
FAQs:
Q: How can I stay awake while driving in the summer heat?
A: Get a good night’s sleep before you hit the road, and take breaks often if you start to feel tired. Caffeinated drinks can also help keep you alert.
Q: What should I do if I see a deer crossing the road?
A: Slow down and be prepared to stop. If possible, honk your horn to scare the deer away. However, don’t swerve to avoid hitting the deer as this could cause an accident.
Q: I’m going on a long road trip. What are some tips for staying safe?
A: Plan your route in advance, and make sure you’re aware of all the construction zones along the way. Drive during the day, and take breaks often to avoid getting too tired. Most importantly, don’t drive if you’re feeling sleepy. Pull over at a safe location and take a nap if you need to.
Conclusion:
By following the tips above, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer driving season. Remember to always drive defensively, and be prepared for anything. With a little extra caution, you can avoid accidents and arrive at your destination safely.