Summer is here. And with it comes the 100 deadliest days of the year on America’s roads.
This period between Memorial Day and Labor Day sees a significant spike in traffic fatalities, due to a combination of factors including more people driving, more young drivers on the road, and more alcohol consumption.
So how can you stay safe during this time? Here are some tips:
Drive Defensively
The best way to avoid an accident is to drive defensively. Be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to react to anything that might happen. Anticipate the actions of other drivers and be ready to take evasive action if necessary.
Don’t Drink and Drive
If you’re going to be drinking, make sure you have a designated driver or another way to get home safely. Never get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking. Not only is it illegal, but it’s also incredibly dangerous. Try to plan ahead so you don’t find yourself in a situation where you have to choose between driving drunk and leaving your car stranded.
Obey the Speed Limit
Speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents, so it’s important to obey the posted speed limit. Even if you’re an experienced driver, it’s not worth risking an accident by going too fast. And remember, the speed limit is the absolute maximum – it’s often safest to go even slower, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic.
Check Your Car Before You Drive
Before you set out on a long journey, make sure your car is in good working condition. Check the tires, the oil, and the other fluids. Make sure all the lights are working. And if you’re not confident in your mechanical skills, take it to an auto repair shop and have them give it a once-over.
Leave Plenty of Following Distance
Tailgating is dangerous and can easily lead to an accident. Make sure you leave plenty of space between your car and the car in front of you. This will give you more time to react if the other driver makes a sudden stop.
Be Careful Around Big Trucks
Big trucks can be especially dangerous because of their size and weight. They need more space to stop and they have blind spots where you might not be visible to the driver. When passing a truck, make sure you give yourself plenty of room. And never cut off a truck – they might not be able to stop in time to avoid hitting you.
Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
If you’re driving in an unfamiliar area, take some time to plan your route before you get behind the wheel. Know where you’re going and how to get there. This will help you avoid getting lost and can also help you avoid traffic jams and other delays.
Take Breaks When You’re Tired
If you’re feeling tired, pull over and take a break. It’s important to stay alert when you’re driving. If you can, try to share the driving with someone else so you can take turns resting. And if you’re on a long road trip, make sure to plan for plenty of stops along the way.
Following these tips will help you stay safe on the roads during the 100 deadliest days of the year. And remember, if you ever find yourself in an accident, the best thing to do is to stay calm and call for help.
