Summer Driving Tips to Avoid a Car Accident & Other Injuries

Summertime means more fun, sun and traffic on the roads headed to vacation destinations! Families across the country will be traveling from June to the first weekend in September – also known as the 100 deadliest days.

We want to ensure that you and your family are taking measures to protect yourselves in the coming months. The National Highway Safety Administration suggests four (4) topics that all drivers and passengers need to consider before taking a summer road trip.

1. Before You Leave:
   1. When was the last time your car had a tune up?
   2. Check the tread and pressure of your tires.
   3. Check for vehicle recalls.
   4. Go over a safety checklist: lights, cooling system, wipers, fluids, A/C, Belts/Hoses and Tires.
   5. Pack an Emergency Safety Kit: cell phone charger, blanket, water, first aid kit and flashlight.

2. Safety First:
   1. Set the example for all family members and friends by wearing a seatbelt at all times.
   2. Safety laws regarding children are imperative:
      • Any child under the age of 13 should be seated in the backseat of the vehicle.
      • Make sure that car seats and booster seats are properly installed and that any children riding with you are in their car seat, booster seat, or wearing a seat belt that is best suited to protect them.
      • Review the NHTSA’s child passenger safety recommendations to find out how to select the right seat for your child’s age and size.
      • Never leave your child unattended in or around your vehicle.
      • Always remember to lock your vehicle when exiting so children do not play in or get trapped inside.

3. On the Road:
   1. Stay alert at all times. If you begin to feel drowsy, pull the car over immediately.
   2. Take frequent stops to stretch, grab a bite to eat and stay hydrated.
   3. Keep your eyes on the road at all times. Put your cell phone away and don’t let other distractions get in the way from the task at hand.
   4. Be aware that you share the road with motorcyclists and bicyclists!

4. Summer Safety:
   1. Never leave a child alone in a parked car. A child’s body temperature can increase up to 3 to 5 times faster than adults’.
   2. Before entering or exiting the vehicle, always look on all four sides of the vehicle to see if a child is near.
   3. Heatstroke occurs in temperatures as low at 57 degrees. On the sultry, 80+ degree days, the inside of the vehicle can reach deadly levels in 10 minutes.
   4. Keep your doors locked, trunk closed and the keys away from a child.

For a free legal consultation, call 404-214-2001

These four (4) subjects are meant to help all travelers this summer. The importance of preparation, safety and attentiveness are critical in keeping you and your family safe this summer. If you would like more information regarding summer travel, please visit www.nhtsa.gov.

For more information about this article, contact Kaine Law today.

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