Summer would seem to be a time when driving would be safer, but the truth is that it has its own special kinds of hazards that put people at risk. Summer driving is much different than the cold, slick days in winter or the rainy days of spring, but it still has some of the highest numbers of car accidents per month than other times of the year.
In 2014, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that August had the second highest number of fatal accidents. The greatest number of fatal accidents actually took place in the fall in October. Additionally, June, July and September also had high numbers of crashes that year.
What causes summer to be so much more dangerous than other times of year?
The one major factor that changes is the number of teens and young adults on the road. When there is no school or college in session, more young people have the ability to travel and drive. These are also the individuals with the least experience driving, so they are more likely to be involved in a crash.
Tire blowouts are another concern. As the temperatures rise, so does the pressure per square inch (PSI) of a tire. As the air expands, it has the potential to cause the tire to rupture. This is why it is important to check your tires regularly as the days become hotter.
It’s a good idea to keep an eye on commercial vehicles around you. These vehicles may struggle with these conditions and have tire blowouts as a result of heat and the heavy weight of a trailer. The drivers may make mistakes or cut people off due to the number of vehicles on the roads. If you’re struck, your attorney can help you pursue a claim.
Source: esurance, “The dangers of summer driving,” accessed June 19, 2017
