With recreational vehicle (RV) sales and rentals at an all-time high and mass transportation industry at a stand-still, the roads have seen an increase of traffic this summer. Stay safe on the road and look out for these dangers for this summer.

As the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer come to a close this month, we want to let drivers know what dangers may be prevalent on the roads as people are squeezing in one last summer road trip or family vacation before the weather cools down. While the COVID-19 pandemic is still a prominent threat in our society, we are seeing an increase in vehicle traffic on the roads all across the nation. With more cars on the roads, we want you to buckle in and brush up on some of the dangers drivers may encounter in our new normal.

Warmer Months are more Dangerous for Drivers
Many people assume that winter is more dangerous to drive in. While the cold months have inclement weather like snow, sleet, rain, and a wintry chill, the warmer months see more fatalities than any of the winter months. The months of May through October are actually the months with the most car accident fatalities.

One of the reasons summer is so dangerous is the increase of young and inexperienced drivers on the road. Colleges and schools are out of session, so teens and young adults are much more active on the roads. Another factor is the number of holidays in the summer months. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is called “The 100 Deadliest Days” because June, July, and August see more car accident fatalities than their counterparts of December, January, and February. It looks like the 100 Deadliest Days may be extended in our new normal, however. Since schools and colleges are still unsure of their future, we can expect more young and inexperienced drivers to stay on the roads so be sure to look out for them and maintain safe driving practices.

More vehicles on the road
Summer tends to see more vehicles on the road, as mentioned before. However, with COVID-19 restrictions easing and mass transportation being avoiding by the public, there is an increase of vehicular traffic across the nation. It’s not just cars on the roads, either. RV sales and rentals are increasing, there is a higher demand for truck freight due to the virus, and people are hitting the road for some old-fashioned camping in lieu of flying for summer getaways. This means more cars to share the road with, more traffic, and more chances for car accidents to occur.

Increase of Road Work
Road work is an inescapable and prominent part of traveling, especially during the summer months. Construction zones can be dangerous to navigate, especially during heavy traffic hours. Even though Missouri state has put the brakes on some construction projects, there is still notable road work in some parts of Missouri and Kansas. Construction sites are always difficult to navigate, let alone when there are more traffic and COVID-19 safety restrictions in place. Make sure you’re aware of the construction projects on your drive from Point A to Point B and follow the safety rules and regulations.

Less Safe Vehicle Regulations
With the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) offices being closed for months due to COVID-19 and exemptions/exceptions being made left and right, people are lax on renewing their proper documentation. There is also quite a bit of leeway when it comes to car inspections due to the shutdowns as well. Deadline dates have been pushed back and although this may seem insignificant, this means that some of the vehicles on the road may be unfit to drive.

How You Can Stay Safe:
Now more than ever, it’s important to implement driving safety when you’re behind the wheel.

  • Avoid driving at night if it isn’t necessary. If you have to drive at night, use extra caution, and ensure your headlights are functional and efficient. Lower your speed and don’t “overdrive” your vision.
  • Obey traffic laws—use your signals and follow the speed limit.
  • Be alert on the road and cautious of those around you. You don’t just share the road with other cars, you also share it with pedestrians, trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles!
  • Use your mirrors even when you’re not changing lanes—keep an eye out for other drivers who may fall prey to bad driving habits like speeding or reckless driving.
  • Refrain from aggressive driving. Road rage increases with the temperatures!
  • Make sure you’re abiding by work zone speeding limits not only to avoid any hefty fines, but to keep you, other drivers, and the construction workers safe.
  • Keep your cool! It’s easy to get overwhelmed or stressed out when lanes narrow or you’re driving alongside concrete barriers. Take a deep breath and try your best to remain calm.
  • Buckle up, put the phone down, and keep your eyes and ears open.

We hope these tips keep you safe and you know what to look out for as a driver in our “new normal”. The best thing you can do on the road is to keep your driving in check and practice safe driving habits. 

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident, we can help. The Pottenger Law Firm offers free consultations to car accident victims. Find out what your options are first and what you may be entitled to. Call 816-531-6006 or contact us here.