U.S. Highways Most Deadly In Late Summer
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, August and early September are the months that most Americans travel, drive further, burn more gas and are killed more often on our highways. As a driver, you need to prepare yourself and your vehicle to face the many problems that can arise on our nation’s roadways as the summer winds down.
Be Prepared
Late summer driving conditions are often hot and stressful on your vehicle. To avoid long delays in the heat from breakdowns while you’re on the road, make sure you perform a pre-trip inspection before every trip. Check the oil, transmission fluid, windshield washer, battery level and strength, tire pressure, coolant system, belts and hoses. As you drive, check your indicator lights and gauges frequently. Driving with an overheated engine can cause serious damage to your vehicle.
Watch Erratic Drivers
While some drivers search for the last opportunity for summer fun, others are returning home from vacations. Out-of-state license plates often mean drivers who are unfamiliar with their surroundings and are more likely to slow down to road signs or maps, change lanes or stop suddenly. College students going back to school often have their cars packed without consideration for sight-lines or they are towing trailers that affect their driving. And, always, motorcycles can be difficult to see in traffic. Stay alert and be prepared for the mistakes of others.
Fatigue Affects All Drivers
Driving for extended periods to get to a last summer fun destination can cause driver fatigue…especially for those not used to the type of schedule. Do everything you can to avoid fatigue by getting proper rest, regular exercise and by eating healthy, light meals to keep alert behind the wheel.
Fun In The (Fading) Sun
The end of the summer days brings more people outdoors, especially in congested towns and cities where pedestrians, busy taking in the sights, aren’t paying attention to traffic. Keep an eye out for pedestrians, bicyclists and children returning to school who tend to act quickly and without looking where they are going. There will be times when it seems like you are the only one paying attention, so slow down and keep your eyes moving.
Source:
Chauffeur Safety Bulletin
Lancer Insurance
