Truck Driving Safety Tips During the Summer

Summer has officially kicked off and with it comes the need for safety reminders. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that August of 2014 alone had 3,037 fatal car accidents. Summer, although a great time of the year, is a season that is not without dangers of its own. That being said, let’s take a minute to talk about the risks and ways we can be smarter (and safer) on the road.

5 Tips for Safe Summer Driving

Look out for Heavier Traffic

Why is it that summer driving is dangerous? The obvious reason is that travel increases. Many people are on break from school and want to enjoy the warm weather. Traffic across the U.S. seems to get heavier as people go on vacation and visit family. Another reason for summer safety is the heat. Some places of the United States face unprecedented temperatures of extreme heat.

Keep an Eye on Your Tires

One thing to remember is that tires can blow out in extreme heat. Extreme temperatures allow tires to expand and sometimes burst. This is why it is incredibly important to keep an eye on the status of your tires. Be sure that you are taking the proper precautions to keep your tires in good condition.

Stay Hydrated

Another consequence of extreme temperatures is dehydration. It is imperative that during the summer months you pay attention to your water intake. Extreme dehydration can lead to heat stroke, kidney failure, loss of consciousness, and hypovolemic shock. These are consequences of extreme dehydration, but mild dehydration is the stepping stone to health issues like the ones listed. It is recommended that you get an intake of at least eight 8 ounce cups of water.

Be Aware of Inexperienced Drivers

Summer means that school is out. When school is out, more teens and college-age students are traveling. This means that more inexperienced drivers are out on the roads. Being aware of their presence and using defensive driving techniques will help you to avoid accidents with reckless drivers.

Pay Attention in Construction Zones

And finally, remember that during the warmer months more highway construction goes on. Pay attention when you are entering construction zones, and be cautious as you go through these areas. Being aware of your surroundings is key to navigating through and around construction sites.

It’s important to remember that as much fun as summertime brings, it also has its fair share of dangerous situations. As always, be smart and be safe!