A Guide to Safe Summer Road Travel 

Summer is fast approaching, and many of us will be looking forward to enjoying some well-earned time off. If you’re planning a road trip or just visiting friends or family this summer, make sure safety is your #1 priority. Here are travel safety tips to help you steer clear of danger. 

Preparing For Your Road Trip 

Summer is the perfect time of year to get out onto the open roads and enjoy some quality time with friends or relatives. If you’re hoping to take a road trip and make the most of long, hot days, it’s essential to prepare in advance. 

NTHSA reports higher numbers of crashes are seen in the summer months. Here are some tips for staying safe this summer! 

  • Preform necessary pre-trip maintenance of your vehicle: 
  • Check fluids. 
  • Check the tire pressure. 
  • Have a look for any obvious signs of wear and tear on the tires and check the tread depth. 
  • Check to be certain that all lights and signals are working properly. 
  • If your car is due for service, it’s best to contact your local auto repair shop before you travel. 
  • Plan your route beforehand to save the stress of getting lost. 
  • Pack an emergency kit. 
  • Make sure you have all the necessary documents for you and your car such as your driver’s license, proof of insurance, registration, etc. 

Safe Driving Tips 

When you’re ready to set out on your summer voyage, keep the rules of the road in mind. We tend to relax when we’re on holiday, but don’t let your driving skills or your focus slip. Stick to the speed limit, give cars around you plenty of space and time, and take regular breaks, especially if you’re driving at night. Check your mirrors before pulling out, stopping, and changing lanes. Never drink and drive. Minimize your distractions when driving. 

Summer may seem like a safe time to travel, as many people associate winter weather with driving hazards.  One of the most significant hazards is the glaring sun, which can affect visibility, making it very difficult to anticipate what other vehicles and drivers are doing. It’s also harder to spot animals, cyclists, and pedestrians. When driving, it’s wise to invest in some good quality sunglasses that will help minimize the glare from the sun. It is crucial to always stay alert and aware of your surroundings. 

Make sure to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.  The three-second rule, as described by drive-safely.net, is a good guide to keep at least one car distance behind the driver in front of you. Without a safe distance, you could crash into the vehicle in front of you should they have to apply their brakes in an emergency. Maintaining a safe distance will help give you time to react to the situation and apply your brakes. 

Davis Law Firm is Here 4 You! 

Should you find yourself injured in an accident you can always contact us at (210) 444-4444, (956) 444-4444 or (361) 999-9999. Davis Law Firm is here 24/7 for you! Our team of legal representatives offer free initial consultation. If you’re planning to do some summer travel, it’s advisable to be prepared. You don’t want the weather, worn tires or an unexpected diversion to ruin your plans. Hopefully, this guide will help to ensure you have a memorable vacation for all the right reasons.