Summer in Florida is in full swing, and we know what that means! Our roads are filled with beach-goers, tourists, parents with kids – everyone is out and about enjoying the lifestyle our beautiful state provides. There are also many more teenagers on the roads during the day, as they aren’t in school. With all these new drivers and busy streets, motorists must stay vigilant and drive safely. Here are some basic reminders to make sure you and your family get to your destination safely this summer. After all, everyone needs a refresher course now and again.
Road Safety Tips for Summer
Make sure your vehicle is road-ready: The sweltering weather we experience this time of year can affect our car’s mechanical systems, most notably the battery. If your car battery is over three years old, bring it to a certified repair shop to test its condition. Get an oil change if you’re getting ready for a road trip of any length. You should also have your tires inspected, as tires that are wearing thin can more easily blow out. These safety precautions should help you to catch any potential issues before a problem occurs at highway speeds. No matter how well you prepare, keep a well-stocked roadside emergency kit, including flares, jumper cables, and a flashlight in your car. Travel with a few gallons of water for your radiator, a few quarts of oil, and a full spare tire at all times.
Obey the Speed Limit: One of the leading causes of Florida car accidents is speeding. Unfortunately, excessive speed is also a significant issue in neighborhoods and residential areas – where it is imperative to obey posted speeds and remain vigilant. In the summer, kids play in yards and driveways and can run out into the street without notice. Take your time, keep your wits about you, plan your route, and obey the speed limit. After all, driving at a slower rate of speed translates into better gas mileage – something we all need this summer!
Eliminate Distractions: Smartphones, loud music, and even vehicle passengers can cause distractions. Losing focus when driving can be catastrophic – even glancing away from the road for a moment can be enough to cause an accident, especially at high speeds. Be sure nothing in the car is too loud to drown out sirens from approaching emergency vehicles or car horns of other motorists. Statistically, more than three passengers quadruple the risk of accident – so be mindful of who you invite to ride with you. Finally, if you use a GPS, set it up before you leave your parking spot.
Be Prepared for Weather: Anyone who has lived in Florida over a summer season knows that rainstorms can appear suddenly, seemingly out of nowhere. These torrential rainstorms can make roads slick, and puddles can form quickly. To drive safely under these conditions, keep a safe distance on all sides of your car. You’ll need additional reaction time should another driver stop, slide, or hydroplane. Make sure your wipers are clean and not worn down. If visibility becomes too poor to continue to drive safely, pull over into a parking lot or rest area if possible.
Drive Safely – But Call Us if Something Occurs
Even if you do everything right, accidents can still happen. If you are involved in a car accident, be sure to know what to do first – and understand how you should act at the scene. When you are safe and have sought any necessary medical care, call a local car accident attorney. At Probinsky & Cole, we have a team of professional and experienced attorneys ready to help.
Probinsky & Cole has offices in the Sarasota, Tampa, and Orlando areas.
