The intense heat and humidity mean another East Texas summer is here, and it’s a busy time for driving. Unfortunately, summer can be a very dangerous driving season. In fact, studies at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and government agencies have shown that traffic injuries and fatalities are highest in July and August.
Let’s help you stay safe this summer. Our Dallas auto accident lawyers have put together a list of some of the most common summer driving hazards. Now you can be aware and try to avoid them.
Summer Driving Hazards in Texas
These are a few of the hazards known to frequently contribute to summertime car and truck wrecks:
- Tire blowouts: The unrelenting Texas sun heats up roadways, which in turn makes tires run hot. The rubber compound can break down faster after logging many miles under such extreme conditions. And to make matters worse, the air inside tires gets hot and expands. Make sure your tires are in good condition, a few years old or less, and inflated to the proper pressure.
- Hot weather: Sitting in traffic in 100-degree heat is stressful for any car’s cooling system. Make sure your system is in top condition by flushing and replacing the old coolant and checking your hoses. Get your cooling system inspected by a qualified mechanic.
- Damaged roads: Summer heat can make pavement crack, buckle and break apart, leading to uneven surfaces. Watch for problems with roads and try to safely avoid them.
- Bicycles and pedestrians: Cyclists and pedestrians braving the heat are vulnerable to motor vehicles. Keep an eye out for them, and be sure to give them grace; they’re out in the heat while you’re in your air conditioned car.
- Severe storms: East Texas is no stranger to severe summertime thunderstorms. Driving during one can lead to difficulty seeing and an inability to safely navigate the roads. If you get caught in a downpour, slow down or pull off the road if you can do so safely.
Injured in a Summertime Auto Accident in Texas? Call Us.
Ted B. Lyon & Associates is a Dallas-based personal injury law firm. We represent people injured in all kinds of motor vehicle wrecks in East Texas. Our attorneys would be happy to meet with you and provide a free case evaluation. Schedule a no-obligation, no-cost legal consultation by calling 877-Ted-Lyon or send us an email.
