With beautiful summer weather finally, here, many of us are looking forward to road trips and long drives under the sun. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential hazards that summer can bring to your vehicle. Today, we’ll touch on the common road and vehicle hazards you may encounter during the summer season. We’ll focus on the road hazards, and on Wednesday, we’ll delve into vehicle-specific dangers. By understanding and preparing for these risks, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable summer driving experience.
Potholes and Uneven Surfaces:
Winter isn’t the only time you’ll run into potholes! Summer heat can take a toll on roads, causing cracks and potholes to form. These road imperfections pose a significant risk to your vehicle’s tires, suspension, and alignment. Driving over potholes can lead to tire blowouts, bent wheels, and misaligned suspensions. To minimize the impact of potholes, follow these tips:
-Stay attentive and watch for road signs indicating roadwork or uneven surfaces.
-Reduce your speed when approaching damaged sections of the road.
-Maintain proper tire pressure to increase their resistance to damage.
Construction Zones:
Summer is prime time for road construction and repair projects. It seems like there are construction crews on every street! Construction zones can be challenging to navigate due to narrowed lanes, changing traffic patterns, and uneven surfaces. Here’s how you can safely maneuver through construction areas:
-Stay alert and watch for signs indicating construction zones ahead.
-Follow reduced speed limits and be mindful of workers and construction equipment.
-Merge early and allow extra space between vehicles to accommodate merging traffic.
-Be patient and avoid aggressive driving behaviors.
Increased Traffic:
Summer is a popular time for vacations and travel, resulting in increased traffic on the roads. Higher volumes of vehicles can lead to congestion, longer travel times, and a higher risk of accidents. To mitigate the hazards of heavy traffic:
-Plan your trips wisely, considering traffic patterns and peak travel times.
-Use navigation apps to find alternate routes and avoid congested areas.
-Practice defensive driving by maintaining a safe following distance and being aware of your surroundings.
Wildlife Encounters:
As temperatures rise, wildlife may become more active, increasing the chances of encounters on the road. Collisions with animals can cause significant damage to your vehicle and pose risks to your safety. Follow these precautions to minimize the risk of wildlife-related accidents:
-Pay attention to wildlife crossing signs and be extra cautious in rural areas.
-Reduce your speed at dawn and dusk, when animals are more active.
-Use high beams when safe and appropriate to increase your visibility.
-If an animal appears on the road, brake firmly and avoid swerving, which could cause you to lose control.
Being aware of road hazards during the summer season will help you stay safe and enjoy your drive that much more. Stay tuned for Part 2 on Wednesday, where we’ll explore vehicle-specific hazards and offer valuable tips to keep your car in top condition this summer.