Stay Safe on the Road This Summer
Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Families head out on vacations, teenagers are out of school, construction projects increase, and more motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians share the roads. While summer travel can be enjoyable, it also brings an increased risk of serious car accidents.
At McShane & Brady we often see a rise in crash-related injuries during the summer months. Understanding the risks and taking a few extra precautions can help keep you and your family safe while traveling.
Why Summer Driving Can Be More Dangerous
Many people assume winter weather creates the most dangerous driving conditions, but summer has its own unique hazards. Increased traffic congestion, distracted driving, road construction, and driver fatigue all contribute to higher accident rates during the warmer months.
Long road trips and crowded highways can quickly turn dangerous when drivers become impatient or careless behind the wheel.
Avoid Distracted Driving
Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of car accidents across the country. During summer travel, drivers are often using GPS systems, checking phones, adjusting music, or dealing with excited passengers in the vehicle.
Even taking your eyes off the road for a few seconds can lead to a devastating crash.
Watch for Construction Zones
Summer is prime road construction season. Narrow lanes, sudden stops, detours, and changing traffic patterns can increase the likelihood of accidents.
When driving through work zones:
- Slow down and obey posted speed limits
- Leave extra space between vehicles
- Watch carefully for workers and equipment
- Stay alert for sudden lane shifts
Never Drive Under the Influence
Summer holidays such as the Fourth of July and Labor Day are often associated with an increase in drunk drivingaccidents.
If you plan to drink:
- Designate a sober driver
- Take an Uber, Lyft, or cab
- Stay overnight if necessary
- Never get behind the wheel impaired
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts everyone on the road at risk and can lead to life-changing injuries or fatalities.
Be Prepared for Long Road Trips
Fatigue can impair driving abilities just as much as alcohol. Long hours on the road, especially during family vacations, can reduce reaction times and increase the risk of falling asleep at the wheel.
It is important that before taking any type of road trip:
- Get plenty of rest
- Take breaks every two hours
- Share driving responsibilities
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid driving late at night
If you get tired, pull over safely and rest.
Watch for Motorcycles, Bicycles, and Pedestrians
Warm weather means more people are outside. Motorcyclists, cyclists, joggers, and pedestrians are all more common during the summer months.
Drivers should:
- Check blind spots carefully
- Yield when appropriate
- Give cyclists enough space
- Watch for pedestrians at intersections and crosswalks
A moment of inattention can result in catastrophic injuries for vulnerable road users.
Teen Drivers Are on the Road More Often
Summer break means many teen drivers spend more time behind the wheel. Inexperience combined with distractions can increase accident risks. Parents should set clear ground rules and expectations when it comes to their teenager behind the wheel, including limiting passengers, setting a curfew, and enforcing a no phone policy while driving.
Injured in a Summer Car Accident? We Can Help
A serious car accident can leave victims facing medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and uncertainty about the future. If you or a loved one has been injured because of another driver’s negligence, our Kansas City personal injury attorneys can help you pursue compensation.
McShane & Brady is committed to helping accident victims understand their rights and navigate the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Contact McShane & Brady, LLC today to speak with our personal injury attorneys who will fight to get the compensation you deserve.
📞 Call us at (816) 888-8010
🌐 Visit mcshanebradylaw.com
Let us protect your rights.