Although summertime weather can bring lots of fun and spontaneous road trips, it also comes with an increased risk of unexpected motor vehicle accidents. Preventing accidents is never 100% guaranteed, but with proper safe driving habits (especially in the summer), it is possible to decrease the chances of experiencing an auto collision.
What Causes Accidents in the Summer?
There are many contributing factors to an increase in motor vehicle accidents during warmer months, some of which include:
More Teen Drivers on the Road
One of the joys of being a teenager is getting your license and driving yourself around. Although this is a very exciting milestone in life, it has many dangers. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, drivers are at a higher risk of being involved in an accident during the summer season, with June, July, and August being peak months. It is also reported that teenagers are found to be the drivers in most of these accidents, due to being on the roads more because of summer break from school and lifted curfews.
Driving Under the Influence
Warm weather is the perfect time for friends and family to celebrate together. More likely than not, summer celebrations like cookouts and backyard barbecues will have some alcoholic beverages for those of age to enjoy. Even though we all know how dangerous drinking and driving can be, a good number of individuals still decide to get behind the wheel instead of staying the night or taking advantage of rideshare options such as Lyft and Uber.
Increase of Motorcyclists on the Road
Typically during peak summer months, motorcyclists are more likely to take a joyride on their bikes. While this can be exciting, it can also be dangerous when sharing the roads with standard auto vehicles. Motorcycles are smaller than the average vehicle on the road, making them much harder to see (especially at night).
Construction Season
Summer is the peak season for construction projects. This can not only add extra time to daily commute times, but it can also create hazards on the road resulting from debris workers may not have seen.
Vehicle Failure
The increase in temperatures may make you happy but not your car. Extreme heat conditions can affect the mechanical elements of your vehicle, and it's common to see engines overheating or cooling systems giving out. Routine visits to a mechanic can be a great way to prevent this from causing an accident.
High temperatures can also harm your tires and tire pressure (even if they are new ones). Always check this before leaving your destination to prevent tire blowouts.
Get Help
If you or someone you know has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, seeking help from a skilled professional may be beneficial. They can properly assess your case and give you an idea of your legal options. Here at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, we have a team of skilled professionals dedicated to your case's success. We want to help you get back on track after your accident. Let us fight, so you don't have to.
Contact us today at (215) 486-0123 or visit us onlineto schedule your free consultation with a trusted team member.