Everyone knows the dangers of driving in heavy rain or snow, but often we don’t give a second thought to how hot weather affects our driving! However, driving in hot weather conditions can present plenty of challenges and can pose a risk to the health and safety of drivers and passengers alike! That’s why we have put together a few safety tips for driving during the hot summer days to help you stay safe on the roads.
Keep It Cool
There are only a few things more uncomfortable than sitting in a baking hot car. When you are uncomfortable and hot, you can quickly get irritable, and that might affect your judgment when driving. If you are hot and irritable, how can you keep your attention entirely focused on the road? That’s why one of our top tips for driving safely in the summer heat is to start your journey off in a cool car.
• Whenever possible, try to park in the shade to stop the car from overheating
• A few minutes before driving open all the windows to allow some fresh air into the vehicle
• Run the air conditioning for a few minutes before getting into the car otherwise you will just be blowing hot air at yourself
Have You Topped Up Your Fluids?
It’s not just the interior of the car that gets hot in unusually warm weather. Your engine is more likely to overheat in the Summer, especially if you are stuck in heavy traffic. Always make sure your coolant is topped up and try to switch off the engine when sitting in traffic to help the engine stay cool.
You will also want to make sure the windshield washer fluid is adequately topped up. When the roads are dry, a lot of dust gets kicked up by tires, and the windshield can get particularly dirty. This not only obscures visibility but sometimes the dust marks may even amplify the glare of the sun. It is a great safety tip to keep your windshield washers topped up to help keep your view unobscured.
Not only does your vehicle need plenty of fluids in summer, it's also a good idea to keep cold water available in the car for you and your passengers, especially on long journeys. Dehydration is not something you want to worry about, especially when behind the wheel since it can cause loss of concentration.
Be Prepared for Sun Glare
One of the most significant hazards for drivers in the summer months is impaired vision caused by sun glare. This is probably one of the most common causes of accidents during hot weather. There are many things you can do to minimize sun glare.
• Get a good pair of sunglasses for driving
• Make use of the overhead sun visors to block out the sun
• Keep the windshield clean as dust marks can amplify glare
• Replace worn wipers to help with maintaining a clear windshield
Keep Your Tires Properly Maintained
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Another essential driving safety tip for summer is checking the condition of your tires. Tire blowouts are much more common in hot weather conditions. If you have even minor tire damage, or if they are underinflated, then high temperatures can aggravate this and increase the likelihood of a blowout or puncture. Get into the habit of checking your tire pressure regularly and looking for any wear or damage that may need attention.
Hopefully, these driving safety tips can help you to have a comfortable and safe driving experience while the weather is warm. Get out there and enjoy a summer road trip with the knowledge that you have reduced your risk of getting into trouble!
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Founded in Chicago, IL in 1937, Gerber Collision & Glass has provided quality auto collision and auto glass repair work for more than seventy years. What started as a single auto glass and trim shop has grown to be part of the largest auto collision and glass repair companies in North America.
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