Reduce Your Risk of a Motor Vehicle Accident This Summer

Car driving into the sunset

Summer is synonymous with vacations, road trips, pool days, sunshine, and relaxation. It’s no wonder that this is a favorite time of year for many. While it’s easy to let your guard down during the summer months, it’s important to realize that certain factors can increase your risk of getting into a car accident as well.

According to a 24-year study done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the months of June, July, and August have 29% more traffic deaths than the winter months of December, January, and February.

Below, we discuss some of the factors that lead to more summertime car accidents and ways that you can reduce your risk of being injured during this time.

More Drunk Drivers

Summer pool parties, backyard barbeques, and holiday celebrations often include alcoholic beverages. With more people consuming alcohol outside of their home in social settings, there are typically more drunk and impaired drivers on the road during the summer months.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ranks the Fourth of July as the deadliest day of the year for auto accidents. During this holiday, about 47% of traffic fatalities involve drunk drivers with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08% or higher.

Drunk driving is just not worth it and is entirely preventable. If you are drinking outside of your home during this time, make sure to designate a sober driver or call a rideshare vehicle for transportation.

Teen Drivers on the Road

Many teens are out of school during the summer, which can lead to an increased number of newly-licensed teen drivers on the road. During the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” —the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day—the average number of fatal teen accidents increases by 15%. On average, 260 teens lose their lives in car crashes during this time.

Other drivers, car occupants, pedestrians, or motorcycle riders can also be injured in accidents caused by teens. Parents, you can help your teen drivers avoid accidents this summer by setting rules that:

  • Limit the number of passengers they are allowed to have in their vehicle
  • Only allow them to drive during daylight hours
  • Prohibit them from using their phones while driving
  • Emphasize the importance of always driving sober

Construction Ramps Up

Summer is also known as construction season. With more road projects underway, lane closures may lead to increased traffic, road congestion, and driver confusion. Additionally, there can be hazards present in active construction zones, leading to higher accident numbers.

Before you head out, you can check the Georgia Department of Transportation website to see if there are going to be any construction projects that you may drive into. This gives you time to alter your route and avoid any active construction zones if needed.

Increased Summer Travel

Many families plan vacations during the summer months, which inherently puts more vehicles on the road and increases traffic. With more cars driving in close proximity with one another, the risk of car collisions increases. Additionally, motorists become more impatient in bumper-to-bumper traffic, which can lead to dangerous aggressive driving that can manifest in:

  • Speeding
  • Tailgating
  • Cutting other drivers off
  • Blocking cars attempting to merge, exit, or change lanes

Your Safety Matters Most

Remember that you can enjoy summer vacations while keeping safety as a top priority. When you get behind the wheel, make sure to always drive defensively by implementing the following techniques:

  • Eliminate distractions
  • Never rely on other drivers
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Keep your speed down
  • Increase your buffer

Armed with this information, we hope that you and your family have a happy, safe summer. Should you or a loved one be injured in an accident caused by another person, however, know that our attorneys are here to help you get back on your feet.

We understand that your physical, emotional, and financial recovery is contingent on receiving rightful compensation for your losses. At Jamie Casino Injury Attorneys, we boldly believe in doing what is right and will fight for the justice and full compensation you deserve after an accident. The insurance company doesn’t stand a chance against our tenacious legal team.

We are ready to hear your story and fight for you. Contact our Savannah car accident attorneys at (912) 809-5335 to speak with our legal team for FREE today!