Hazardous driving conditions are often associated with the winter season. However, the summer season presents motorists with a unique set of challenges that make driving during the summer equally as dangerous. With increased traffic, summer vacations, unpredictable weather, and other seasonal hazards, motorists must remain alert to prevent severe accidents and injuries. If you or a loved one is injured in an accident due to another motorist’s negligence, contact a determined Morris County Car Accident Attorney who can help you fight for the rightful compensation you deserve. Please continue reading to learn about the most common summer driving safety hazards.
What are the most common summer driving safety hazards in New Jersey?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, July and August are the most dangerous driving months of the year. This is likely because of the added challenges the summertime presents. The most common summer driving safety hazards include but are not limited to the following:
- Pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists: The summer weather allows more people to get outdoors. This means that vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists will be on the road more often than usual. Motorists must remain vigilant as these parties can disappear in blind spots and move unexpectedly.
- Weather conditions: During the summer months, there are inclement weather conditions such as heavy rainfall, hail, and high winds. There is an increased chance of hydroplaning as the heavy rain can cause slick road surfaces.
- Sun glare: In the summer months, the sunshine can cause sun glare which can temporarily blind motorists. Motorists should be aware of the sun’s glare during the early morning and evening hours. To prevent impaired vision, motorists should wear protective eyewear such as sunglasses.
- Road construction: During the summer, there is an increase in traffic as many municipalities take advantage of the warm weather to conduct road construction to fix any poor road conditions caused during the winter. Due to traffic delays and detours, motorists tend to become impatient and drive more aggressively. Additionally, there is an increase in traffic as many families vacation during the summer months.
- Inexperienced drivers: Teenagers are on break from school during the summer season. That said, more teenagers are on the road than usual. Motorists must remain alert when sharing the road with teenagers, as they are inexperienced and often engage in unsafe driving behaviors such as texting and driving.
Ultimately, motorists must be aware of the seasonal hazards of the summertime to avoid serious accidents and injuries. If you or someone you care about has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact a skilled Morris County car accident lawyer from Lutz Injury Law today. Our firm is committed to helping clients seek reasonable compensation for their economic and non-economic damages.