7 Tips For Avoiding Accidents During The Summer
Summer is the time for road trips and fun vacations, but it can be especially dangerous to be on the roads with an increased number of drivers. In 2018, the World Health Organization released a study showing that driving accidents are the eighth most likely cause of death in the world. In addition, pedestrian deaths in the U.S. are at the highest levels this year than they have been over the past 30 years. This is reason enough to follow the below tips to prevent auto accidents this summer.
1. Take the time to map out your route before you start driving
Even if you only take your eyes off the road for a quick second to follow GPS driving directions on a screen, this could be just enough time to end up in a crash. A few minutes of navigation prep can go a long way in keeping you safe behind the wheel.
2. Make sure you always have a pair of sunglasses handy in your car
Glare from the sun can make it difficult to see other cars and pedestrians while driving. Remember that pretty sunsets can be awesome to watch, but they may leave you blinded by the setting sun. Do not rely on just being able to put your car visor down to keep your path visible.
3. Pack your car carefully. It can be tempting to try to pack in as much cargo as possible for your family vacation
Piling up luggage in your car can block your vision. It also can be a hazard if you happen to get into a collision or have to slam on your brakes all of a sudden. Packing an excessive amount of cargo can be a serious drain on your fuel efficiency.
4. Make sure all passengers wear their seatbelts at all times while you are driving
Some drivers and passengers are tempted to remove their seatbelts on longer trips to get more comfortable and take a nap. This is a bad idea because an accident can happen at any point. You do not want passengers to be ejected from your vehicle and seriously injured in a crash.
5. Clean all of your windows before you start driving
This will enhance your visibility and help you react to traffic hazards quickly. Do not make the mistake of thinking you can just wait until your first stop at a rest stop or gas station to take the time to wash your windows. Lack of visibility is one of the top reasons why drivers get in an accident. It is simply not worth the risk of saving the few minutes it takes to properly clean all of your car windows.
6. Try to plan your road trip so that you are able to do the majority of your driving while the sun is still out
You are more likely to avoid drunk drivers by staying off the road at night. It is also easier to see oncoming traffic and spot pedestrians in your path. It is a good idea to take turns driving with someone else so that you stay alert and responsive behind the wheel. Take frequent breaks if you have to so that you reduce your risk of falling asleep behind the wheel or zoning out while driving. It is not worth saving a few minutes of time on the road to avoid stopping at a rest stop if you are starting to feel tired at all.
7. Plan ahead to keep your youngest passengers occupied on longer road trips
You do not want to have to turn around and take your eyes off the road for any amount of time to deal with restless children in the back rows of seats. Coloring books, reading materials, games and DVDs can help prevent your children from distracting you out of boredom. Furthermore, you should try to make sure that your children under the age of 12 are always seated behind the front seats. It is a much safer location in the event of a crash. Be sure any car seats are properly installed before hitting the road and that they are facing the rear if appropriate for your child.
