Summer is a great time to hit the road and enjoy the warm weather, the scenic views, and the fun activities. However, summer also brings some unique driving hazards that can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. Here at Casper & de Toledo, we have, unfortunately, seen many cases of people who suffered serious harm due to summer driving hazards. For this reason, you should continue reading to learn more about some of the most common summer driving hazards and how to avoid them or deal with them properly. If you are hurt due to the negligence of another, you should contact a seasoned Stamford, Connecticut auto accident lawyer from our firm for help.
The Seven Most Common Summer Driving Hazards
Here are some of the most common summer driving hazards that you should be aware of and prepared for:
- Sun glare: Sun glare, especially during sunrise and sunset, can impair your vision and make it difficult to see traffic signs, signals, pedestrians, and other vehicles. To reduce sun glare, you should wear sunglasses, use your sun visor, and keep your windshield clean at all times.
- Road construction: Summer is the peak season for road construction projects, which can cause traffic delays, detours, lane closures, uneven pavement, and present a whole host of other potential safety hazards, such as debris, dust, loose gravel, and workers. Always slow down when driving through construction zones, follow the signs, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles and workers.
- More traffic: The summer season brings with it increased travel and tourism, consequently leading to elevated traffic density on roadways. The upsurge in traffic can heighten the probability of congestion, collisions, road rage, and aggressive driving. Instead of sitting in traffic frustrated and worried about being late, plan your route ahead of time, avoid peak hours, and drive defensively.
- More pedestrians and cyclists: The summer months witness a surge in outdoor activities like biking, jogging, and hiking, which means more pedestrians and cyclists are on the roads or near the roadsides. To best avoid hitting them, you should slow down, yield the right of way when required, watch out for crosswalks and bike lanes, and allow ample space when passing.
- More motorcycles: Summer is also a favorite time for motorcycle enthusiasts to ride their bikes. Motorcycles are smaller and faster than cars and can easily get into your blind spots or change lanes abruptly. To prevent accidents with motorcycles, you should check your mirrors frequently, signal your intentions, and avoid sudden moves.
- More teen drivers: Summer is also a time when many teens are out of school and on the roads. Teen drivers are more likely to be inexperienced, distracted, reckless, or impaired by alcohol or drugs. Furthermore, they often travel with peers, leading to increased susceptibility to peer pressure and risk-taking behavior.
- Rainstorms or Hailstorms: Rainstorms and hailstorms can occur suddenly and unexpectedly in the summer, creating slippery roads, poor visibility, and hydroplaning hazards. Hydroplaning is when your car loses contact with the road surface due to a layer of water and skids uncontrollably. To avoid hydroplaning, you should slow down, avoid hard braking or turning, and drive in the tracks of the vehicle ahead of you. If you hydroplane, you should ease off the gas pedal, steer in the direction of the skid, and gently apply the brakes if you have anti-lock brakes.
These are just some of the most common summer driving hazards. Even responsible drivers who take every precaution still sometimes sustain injuries in accidents caused by other negligent drivers. If you were hurt in an accident due to no fault of your own, you may be entitled to compensation, and Casper & de Toledo is here to help. Contact us today so we can get started working on your case.
