Car Accidents Are More Common In The Summer: How To Stay Safe This Year

In the summer months, car accidents tend to occur more frequently. The presence of more teen drivers, road congestion, construction, alcohol impairment and excessive heat give rise to an increase in the number of car accidents.

Deadly car crashes in which teen motorists, age 16 to 19, are involved see the fatality rate increase by 16 percent from any other season of the year. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), during the 100 days following Memorial Day, frequently referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days,” an average of 10 people are killed in car crashes involving teens.

Heavily congested roads can cause motorists to drive erratically. An increased amount of road construction in the summer can lead to detours, distracted driving and other perils on the road. Because people often hold barbecues and get-togethers in the summer, and frequently consume alcohol at such events, they also make the poor choice of driving after having an alcoholic beverage.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), during the summer months, there is a dramatic increase in the amount of motorists who are impaired by alcohol. As a result, there is twice the number of car collision deaths than at all other times of the year combined. Furthermore, the excessive heat of the summer can cause dehydration and driver fatigue, thereby resulting in a decrease in driver reaction time, attention span and judgment, all of which can contribute to a car crashes.

Ways to stay safe

In order to reduce your risk of becoming involved in a car accident in the summer, you should avoid sending texts or checking messages while you are driving. Additionally, wear your seat belt and lower your speed when it is raining, as wet roads can be hazardous. Moreover, prior to embarking on a major road trip, check your tire pressure because tire blowouts are more likely to occur in warmer weather.

At Steinberg Law Firm, our lawyers are dedicated to fighting for the injured and their families to get you the compensation you need. If you have been seriously injured in a car accident, call the experienced car accident lawyers at Steinberg Law Firm today at 843-720-2800 for your free consultation. We represent clients throughout the Charleston, South Carolina region.