Summertime Road Safety Risks to Avoid

The majority of people’s favorite season has always been summer. There is more to it than just pleasant temperatures and bright skies. Summertime often signals it’s time to load up and head out. Many people have planned summertime activities, like going on a fantastic escape with family and friends.

Summertime has its own set of hazardous driving conditions, even if the wet season is well recognized for them. There are several driving risks that drivers should be aware of during the summer, such as weather-related changes and road work.

This summer, keep up your plans for road trips and be safe by reviewing some of the summertime driving dangers listed below.

Construction Inconvenience

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other toll bodies take advantage of the favorable weather during the summer months to repair roads. As a result, when summer arrives, there are more barricades, more traffic, and more delays. Highway construction projects increase the likelihood of unintentional collisions and incidents for drivers.

When driving close to a work zone, it is important to abide by the traffic laws and, as an added precaution, refer to the work zone driving advice. Since accidents can occur at any time, having car insurance in the Philippines is the best financial safeguard against such misfortunes.

Overheating of the Engine

Similar to tire blowouts, overheating engines are the reason for cars that are frequently seen parked at the side of the road with their hoods open in the summer. Because air conditioning is used more frequently during the summer, cars have a tendency to overheat. Overheating can result from a number of variables, including the engine’s heat, the surrounding ambient temperature, and the asphalt’s increasing temperature.

Several strategies exist for avoiding overheating. To make sure the automobile has enough coolant and water, check the radiator and coolant reservoir. This is one of the greatest strategies to prevent it. Before venturing outside and operating a vehicle in the intense heat, drivers ought to do this.

Tire Blowouts

The summertime, when the temperature is at its hottest, is when tire blowouts typically happen. The air inside tires may expand in hot weather. Tire blowouts are a common occurrence on rapid, lengthy travels, particularly when the car is fully loaded. They can push tires past their breaking point when used in tandem.

Checking tire pressure frequently is crucial before embarking on a summer road trip. It is advisable to replace them right away if there are any uneven or extensive tears. Bring extra tire as a precaution in case of emergency. Also, avoid or drive around potholes if possible as it can increase the risk of blown and damage in tires.

Children and Animals

They are two distinct groupings, of course, but when discussing their unpredictable character, they are sometimes merged. During the summer, a lot of kids play outside and sometimes they end up running into the road. In congested places, it’s a good idea to slow down and keep an eye out for children playing. It is possible to save a life by taking an extra thirty seconds to reach your destination.

Additionally, keep an eye out for wildlife, since a driver’s swerving can quickly lead to a dangerous pile-up.

Avoid Driving When Sleepy

Extended summer days and late nights can make you feel sleepy. Just try not to let fatigue get the better of you while driving. Remain attentive and awake, especially on those chilly fall evenings. It won’t be summer forever!

There are certain road safety risks associated with summertime driving, even with all of its fantastic benefits. When it comes to driving and averting collisions, preparedness is key. Enjoy the beautiful dog days of summer by being aware of these risks when driving.

Understanding the Weather for Safe Driving

Depending on one’s region, summer weather patterns can include anything from flash floods to tornadoes to thunderstorms. Keeping up with the daily forecast for the regions you’ll be driving through is essential because these weather occurrences might come as a surprise and happen quickly.

When in these circumstances, drive cautiously by slowing down, keeping a closer following distance, turning on your headlights, and, if needed, pulling over in a safe spot. Put safety first to guarantee a safe and easy travel by being organized and mindful of the weather.

How to Get Your Vehicle Ready for Summertime Driving

You can better equip your vehicle to withstand the summertime driving risks and reduce the risk of an accident.

Emergency kits, which may include water bottles, Band-Aids, basic medical supplies, torches, jumper cables, and a phone charger, should always be carried in cars. Additional materials to consider are:

1. A jack to change a tire
2. Maps
3. Extra windshield washer fluid
4. Basic repair tools
5. A tire pressure gauge

Additionally, drivers should inspect the wear and air pressure of their tires. The significance of air pressure lies in its ability to reduce the likelihood of a flat tire and increase fuel efficiency.

All drivers ought to adhere to high standards for vehicle upkeep. Before the hectic summer driving season begins, get your car checked out mechanically to make sure nothing basic, like an oil change, is overlooked.

Please read: ROAD SIGNS FOR MOTORISTS IN THE PHILIPPINES

Conclusion

In general, drivers should be aware of the various risks associated with driving. Being aware of these risks might help drivers get ready for any accidents. But even with additional safety measures, one can never be guaranteed of the uncertainties that driving can bring about.

Car owners can feel safer knowing that if they have comprehensive car insurance, their policy will cover costs for both property damage and injuries sustained in an accident.