Car accidents can happen at any time of the year, but why do accidents occur more frequently during the summer months? Summer is a time when most people have different work routines, especially if they have children who are out of school for the summer.
What Factors Increase Accidents?
New routines, vacations, and other factors can contribute to car accidents. Some of the reasons why car accidents are more common during the summer months include the following:
- An increased number of pedestrians or cyclists sharing the road: This can create a distraction for drivers and make them drive erratically if they are unsure of what to do when approaching a runner or cyclist from behind on a busy road.
- Increased road congestion: This is due to the fact that many people are taking vacations or day trips during the hot summer months. There could be road congestion at unexpected times, which causes drivers to become frustrated or stop suddenly.
- Falling asleep at the wheel: When vacationers plan extended road trips that involve hours upon hours of driving, it can increase the chances of falling asleep at the wheel.
- Alcohol impairment: Alcohol is a factor when people are vacationing or taking off from work and school. Additionally, if people are on vacation and drinking alcohol, they may be driving in unfamiliar territory, which can also increase the chances of an accident.
- Increased number of teenage drivers on the road: Summer is a time when teen drivers may be driving more often and further than they normally would during the school year. Teen drivers are unexperienced, and their driving skills may not be fully prepared for longer trips, especially if they have friends in the car. Drivers should always keep an extra eye out for younger drivers on the road who may make unexpected decisions while driving.
- Vehicle failure is more common in the heat: Hotter temperatures can impact many aspects of the car, especially the tires. This can increase the chances of a tire blowout and an accident.
- An increase in roadway construction: Warmer weather usually means an increase in road construction, which can cause unexpected merges and lane changes. It can also cause lanes to be closed and detours. These unexpected delays and changes can cause drivers to drift into unexpected areas and cause accidents.
- Hydroplaning: Often, drivers think that summer weather is naturally good driving weather; however, rain and water on roadways can be just as hazardous as snow and ice.
How do I Avoid an Accident This Summer?
Some tips to avoid summer-related car accidents include the following:
- Plan stops and divide driving time for road trips: Planning a hotel stop or even a break is important if you know you will be driving for multiple days in a row. Ensuring that all drivers on the trip are prepared to drive for a few hours is important. Also, designating what time of the day you plan to drive is also crucial.
- Leave extra space between cars: This is especially important when you are driving in an unfamiliar area where you may not know where the slowdowns normally occur. This can also help if drivers around you are distracted or impaired.
- Do not drink and drive: It is especially important during the summer months to have a plan to return home after drinking. Rideshares can be helpful in this regard, or designating a sober driver is always an important option.
What do I do if I am in an Accident?
If you are involved in an accident this summer, contact a lawyer immediately. A lawyer will help you with a personal injury suit and help you obtain compensation.
Hillsborough Car Accident Lawyers at Eaton & Torrenzano Provide Legal Assistance to Car Accident Victims
If you have been injured in a car accident, one of our Hillsborough car accident lawyers at Eaton & Torrenzano can help. Contact us online or call us at 718-332-7766 for a free consultation. Located in Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Hillsborough, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout Kings County and Richmond County, including Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, the Bronx, and Manhattan.