More people drive during the warmer summer months, so it’s no surprise that there are more auto accidents during this season. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, (NHTSA), reports higher numbers of vehicle accidents and auto-accident-related injuries or fatalities in June-August.
Although safe driving is a good habit to practice during summer, accidents can still happen. If you’re involved in an accident, contact a car accident injury attorney Bay Area This will help you to manage your claim.
Construction Season
After winter weather has worn down, most roadwork is done in the spring and early summer. Construction can cause traffic jams, delays, roadblocks, traffic congestions, detours and delays. This can lead to injuries and property damage.
To avoid getting into a construction site accident, slow down. It’s the best way to avoid a construction site accident.aw in California for construction zones. A good rule is to slow down to 10-15 mph and merge safely before you get too close.
Overheating Engine
Your engine may heat up more quickly than usual due to the higher temperatures outside. Make sure you have all your fluids checked after winter. Also, check the coolant and inspect all engine parts, such as hoses, belts, and other components. You’ll also want to make sure your air conditioning is working.
Your engine can get too hot and cause fires or render you stranded if it breaks down. This is very dangerous. If you notice that your engine is overheating, pull over in a safe area and let it cool for at least 30 minutes.
Tire blowouts and flats
The changing weather can have a significant impact on tires. In colder temperatures, the air inside a tire will compress and deflate. In warmer weather, the air inside the tires will expand. Anytime tires aren’t properly inflated, it increases the chance for a flat tire or blowout.
You should check your tire pressure frequently and always keep a spare in your vehicle. Replace worn tires, and make sure to switch to winter tires after the snow has melted. Keep in mind that after winter there’s always more potholes in the road, which increase the chance of tire blowouts.
Animals on the road
More animals will cross roads in search of food or mate after hibernation ends. Inflicting injury on animals by hitting them with vehicles and swearing to avoid them causes thousands of car accidents each year.
When deer are active, be extra cautious at dusk and dawn. Be aware of any signs or animal crossings and be alert. To avoid hitting an animal, never turn into oncoming traffic. Always use your high beams when you are safe.
Bicyclists, Pedestrians, and Motorcyclists
Being active is easier in warmer weather. People enjoy walking, biking, and taking their bikes out on the roads. These people are more difficult for other cars to see and are therefore more at risk of being struck by a truck or car.
Be extra cautious when driving near crosswalks, especially in urban areas. Keep your distance from motorcycles, and be extra careful when turning left when a motorcycle is nearby. You should treat cyclists with the same care as you would for a motorcycle and be extra cautious when passing one.
