Summer Months More Dangerous for Drivers
Memorial Day weekend is known to be the beginning of summer and is also known as the beginning of the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer”. Around this time, according to the AAA, the number of car accidents that result in deaths increases significantly, especially those involving teen drivers. The AAA adds that the number of fatalities in car accidents that involve teen drivers aged 16 to 19 increases by roughly 16% every single day compared with other seasons throughout the year.
Why Summer Months are the Deadliest Months for Teen Drivers
CDC statistics point out that the second leading cause of death in the U.S. for teens is fatal motor vehicle accidents. Besides being inexperienced, teens are also impulsive and think that they are invincible. However, the CDC found that the most common causes of vehicle crashes that result in death for teens during the summer months mainly include:
- Distracted driving
- Reckless driving
- Impaired/drunk driving
- Not wearing a seatbelt
Why the Summer Season Can also Be Dangerous for Adult Drivers and All Other Road Users
School’s out, families are out and about and going on vacations (yes, even if covid-19 is still a problem), and the sunny weather means that people just don’t want to stay at home. Other factors that could make the summer months hazardous to all road users include:
More Bicyclists, Motorcyclists, and Pedestrians on the Road
Summer weather is especially ideal for individuals who enjoy just walking around or cruising the streets on their bikes, motorcycles, electric scooters, skateboards, skates, etc. This means that motorists should be extra careful when sharing the roads with more vulnerable road users.
More Road Constructions
It’s very common for construction crews to do more road construction projects during the summer season because of the warmer weather. Unfortunately, construction sites could create various driving hazards, such as:
- Road closures and detours
- Changing or closed traffic lanes
- Heavy traffic
- Temporary signals or signs
Extreme Heat
Tire blowouts are very common during the summer because heat makes the air inside your tires expand, in turn, increasing the risk of the tire blowing out, particularly if the treads are already worn. Likewise, if you fail to properly and regularly maintain your vehicle, the engine could overheat.
You need to ensure that you prepare your vehicle before summer arrives, including having all your tires, hoses, belts, brakes, and fluids checked. If your vehicle requires any repairs or if any component needs replacing, do so as soon as you can. In addition, keep in mind that the sunlight during summer could cause extreme glare, which could result in visibility issues, so protect your eyes when driving and be extra cautious.
Get Help from Our Experienced NYC Car Accident Lawyers Now
If you or a loved one has been hurt due to someone else’s negligent actions on the road, don’t hesitate to reach out to Lipsig, Shapey, Manus & Moverman P.C. You can learn more about your case and rights to seek compensation by scheduling a free consultation with one of our NYC car accident lawyers. Call us at 212-285-3300 or contact us online for more details.
