Summertime is a favorite time of year for many. School is out, the weather is gorgeous, and things seem to move at a slower pace. Although summer is filled with family barbecues, summer vacations, and lazy days, it also brings a number of risks. Summer days and nights present their own dangers for drivers. Careful preparation and awareness of these risks will make the chances of an accident decrease.
Road trips are common for many families in the summer time. Before you hit the road, make sure your car maintenance is up to date and that there are no recalls on your vehicle model. Also, pack an emergency roadside kit in case you break down on the side of the road. Extra cell phone chargers and a first aid kit are valuable commodities to have in the car.
As you travel, make sure that you and all of your passengers wear your seatbelts. It may be tempting to forego the seatbelt for a short distance—such as from a rental beach house to the shore. However, an accident can happen anywhere, anytime. Do not risk being involved in an accident without wearing your seatbelt. Additionally, make sure your children’s car seats are properly installed and that your children are within the height and weight restrictions for their seats.
During the summer, more people tend to be on the road. Pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, and even others on skateboards and roller skates may all be present on a gorgeous day. Remain vigilant as you drive. Do not try to use your cell phone, leave the radio alone, and keep your eyes on the road. Some studies have shown that even using a hands free method, such as Bluetooth audio, does not significantly reduce a driver’s level of distraction.
Similarly, always drive defensively. You must assume that a pedestrian at an intersection will not see you approaching and that a car may turn in front of you without using a signal light. This is especially the case in touristy spots where many drivers may not be familiar with the area. Anticipating others’ actions as best you will reduce the chances of a car accident.
The summertime is known for more frequent thunderstorms, due to the excessive heat. When driving in a storm (or in the rain), make sure your headlights are on and reduce your speed. Do not come to a sudden stop and allow plenty of space between your car and other vehicles.
At Lomurro Law, our skilled New Jersey accident attorneys have represented injured victims in all types of accidents. We have experience in motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, trucking accidents, car accidents, and more. To schedule a free consultation, call 732-482-9285 or contact us online.