Summer signals time for road trips and adventures, but staying safe while enjoying the open road is vital. As temperatures rise and traffic increases, taking a few precautions could make all the difference between a happy summer drive and a woeful one.
With that in mind, here are some driving safety tips to help you avoid common pitfalls this summer!
1. Check Your Vehicle’s Fluids
Your vehicle’s fluids are its lifeblood, and in summer, things heat up, and liquids evaporate faster.
Check your engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid to ensure they are at optimal levels. Low oil can lead to engine damage, while insufficient coolant can cause overheating. Brake fluid is vital for safe stopping distances.
Top off or replace fluids as needed, and consider consulting a mechanic to ensure everything is in top condition for summer driving.
2. Inspect Your Tires
Good tire maintenance is part and parcel of safe driving, even more so if you plan to travel a distance. In summer, heat can cause fluctuations that affect performance and safety — so it’s a good idea to check your tire pressure regularly.
Use a tire gauge to ensure they are inflated with enough air. Examine tread depth for sufficient traction. Look for signs of wear or damage, like cracks or bulges. And don’t forget to check the spare!
3. Maintain Your Air Conditioning
Your air conditioning keeps you comfortable and prevents driver fatigue from excessive heat in the summer.
Check the A/C’s performance — if it’s not blowing cold air, it may need a refrigerant top-up. Clean or replace cabin air filters to ensure optimal airflow, and pay attention to unusual noises or odors, which can indicate potential issues.
4. Watch for Overheating
Overheating is a more likely problem during summer drives. Keep an eye on the temperature gauge.
If you notice signs of overheating, such as steam from the hood or a high-temperature reading, safely pull over and turn off the engine. Let the engine cool before checking coolant levels and inspecting for leaks.
Maintaining your cooling system (hoses, belts, and radiator) will prevent overheating.
5. Plan for Sun Protection
In the summer, sun protection is vital for you and your car. Use sunshades or window tinting to reduce glare and cool your car’s interior. This will help lighten the burden on your a/c.
Wearing polarized sunglasses can shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and improve visibility. Use sunscreen on exposed skin, especially on long trips where sunlight can penetrate windows, and consider sun-protective clothing, like hats and long sleeves, to further shield yourself.
6. Stay Alert and Avoid Fatigue
Maintaining alertness when you’re driving is essential in any season. But summer has its own set of challenges, especially heat fatigue. Plan your journey with regular breaks to combat this, especially on long trips.
If you find yourself yawning, having difficulty focusing or drifting between lanes, it’s time to pull over in a safe area for a rest or change drivers if possible. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before driving, as they can impair alertness. Also, staying cool with your a/c or listening to upbeat music helps you stay awake and focused on the road.
7. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can impair reaction time and decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents. Staying hydrated during hot summer drives is vital for focus and alertness. Watch out for signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dizziness, or fatigue.
Plan regular rest breaks and always keep a supply of water in your vehicle, especially on long trips. Investing in an insulated water bottle will help keep your drinks cool and refreshing during your journey.
8. Pay Attention to Weather Conditions
Before hitting the road in summer, check weather forecasts along your route. Thunderstorms, heavy rain, or heatwaves could be detrimental to driving conditions.
While weather forecasts aren’t 100% accurate, allowing extra time for adverse weather and planning alternative routes will help your journey stay on track. You might want to change your old windshield wipers and make sure all your lights function adequately to ensure visibility in changing weather.
9. Be Aware of Road Hazards
Summer typically brings increased traffic and road construction, so stay vigilant for potential hazards. Plan your route in advance and be prepared for detours. Pay attention to road signs and construction zones, and stay alert for potholes and debris that can damage your vehicle.
10. Prep an Emergency Kit
You never know when an emergency might occur, so it’s always a good idea to have a well-stocked emergency kit in your car.
Include essentials like bottled water, non-perishable snacks, a first aid kit, and necessary medications. Add hot weather items such as sunscreen and extra coolant as it’s summer. Don’t forget basic tools, a flashlight, and jumper cables. And warning triangles can help keep you visible if you need to stop roadside.