The summer season brings with it numerous weather-related challenges that make driving hazardous. With that said, here are some tips to help you drive safely during the summer.
Drive With Caution
Speeding increases the chances of getting into an accident because of your inability to react in a hazardous situation. It has been noted that sales in the U.S. for both new and old vehicle traders are anticipated to surpass $916 billion and $106.6 billion respectively. The reason for the increase in the sale of cars could be the fact that more cars are needing to be replaced due to the increase in car accidents and breakdowns. So, observing the speed limit is one way to protect your car as well as other road users from accidents.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Everyone understands that driving while inebriated is a poor idea. Drinking slows down your reaction time to changes in traffic conditions. This increases the chances of an accident, which explains why more accidents are happening. Research shows that millions of people get wounded on U.S. roads annually. But, to prevent them, either don’t drink while under the influence of alcohol or have a sober individual drive the car if you decide to drink. This not only keeps you safe, but also improves your health and lifestyle. And keep in mind, it’s possible that health insurance won’t cover car accidents caused by your own reckless driving.
Replace Your Windshield Wipers
The windshield wipers are worn out by the sun, yet they are still vital if you are trapped in wet weather. If necessary, inspect and replace them. It’s also a good idea to look over your windshield for any cracks. This is due to the fact that cracks make it difficult to view the road. In addition, keep in mind that windshield cracks that are longer than 12 inches typically necessitate replacing the glass for safety reasons.
Check Your Fluids Regularly
This is done by checking for proper fuel levels and making sure the coolant has no leaks. If there are any fluid leaks, take your vehicle to be serviced. Your car may have a breakdown if it gets overheated. It’s also important to check your coolant, your radiator, and your pressure cap to see if they are functioning well. Carrying extra oil is also a good idea when taking a long trip.
Have an Emergency Repair Kit Ready
In the case of an emergency while driving, you need to be prepared to do fast repairs on the roadside. Some of the basic supplies you would need include tape, a spare tire, a first aid kit, a screwdriver, jumper cables, a flashlight, duct tape, pliers, and vise grips. Also, be equipped with how to use your car’s jack and spare wheel. If you’re not equipped to handle roadside repairs, make sure you have contact information for a roadside repair service. This information can be life-saving.
Check on the Forecast
Summer weather patterns are characterized by tornados, flash flooding, and even thunderstorms, which are dangerous conditions to drive in. The water can also make the road slippery, which may cause an accident. Knowing the forecast of the area you will be driving in will help you decide whether it is safe to do so.
Check the Temperature Gauge
Especially during the summer months, it’s important to check whether your temperature gauge is stable or ticking up uncontrollably. When in an emergency and your car is overheating, you can turn on your car’s heater which will take away some of the heat from the engine and prevent total engine failure. But if your gauge is near the red zone, the best thing to do is to stop driving because your engine will already have overheated.
Buy a Pair of Sunglasses
In the summer months, there is an increased amount of sun glare that comes off the road. This can be extremely hard on your eyes and hazardous as your vision is distorted by the sun’s glare. So, buy polarised sunglasses to protect your eyes from the damaging rays of the sun and to allow you to see better.
These are some tips that may help you to have a good driving experience this summer. Stay safe on the roads!