For many families, summer means vacations, barbecues and road trips. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most dangerous times to be on the road.
The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is often called the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” because traffic accidents increase dramatically during this period. Understanding why summer driving can be more dangerous can help you take steps to keep yourself and your family safe on the roads.
Why is driving more dangerous during the summer?
During the summer, you tend to see more vehicles on the road. Families travel for vacation, teenagers spend more time driving around with their friends and construction projects are ongoing.
A major reason why the “100 deadliest days of summer” receives so much attention is because of the increase in crashes involving teen drivers. School is out, and teenagers spend more time behind the wheel. Teen drivers are also more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as:
- Texting while driving
- Speeding
- Driving with multiple passengers
- Driving late at night
Additionally, inexperienced drivers often fail to recognize hazards or react quickly to dangerous situations.
Holiday weekends throughout the summer are an especially dangerous time to be on the road due to heavy traffic and increased alcohol consumption. Drunk driving accidents continue to be a serious issue. Even a single impaired driver can cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities in seconds.
Not every accident can be prevented, but you can do your part to reduce risk by doing the following:
- Avoid distracted driving
- Obey speed limits
- Never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Wear seat belts
- Take frequent breaks during long trips
- If you have a teen driver, ensure they understand road safety
If you or a loved one were injured in a crash, you may be facing significant medical expenses and lost wages, and uncertainty about what comes next. You need someone who can help investigate the accident, deal with insurance companies and pursue compensation on your behalf.