Memorial Day has come and gone, which means the summer driving season is officially in full gear. This year is unique compared to many others as drivers face new challenges. One of the challenges includes soaring gas prices and increased travel costs. Many families are even recalibrating their plans for long-distance road trips and opting for less expensive alternatives. However, if you plan to hit the road this summer, Stillman & Friedland wants to provide you with some summer safety driving tips for 2022 before you embark on your summer adventure.
Car Maintenance Check
Before anything else, a routine maintenance check of your vehicle should be a top priority. Your car has likely taken a beating by the winter weather months. If you plan on any extended road trips, make sure a qualified mechanic performs a check-up and takes care of routine maintenance items. Your tires and brakes are the most critical parts to check, so make sure the tire inflates to the appropriate PSI and that your brakes work perfectly. Tire treads are also essential. You can check by inserting a penny into the tire groove with Lincoln’s head upside down. If the tread depth is less than 2/32th of an inch, you will see all of Lincoln’s head and know it’s time for new tires.
Summer Safety Driving Tips
- To make sure you have the correct tire pressure, check the maximum pressure at which the tire can safely support its load rating, which is imprinted on the tire wall. Remember that under-inflated tires contribute to lower gas mileage, and with gas prices at all-time highs, this is something to keep in mind. Additionally, mishandled tire pressure reduces your vehicle’s ability to control emergencies, stops, accelerations, and other dangerous scenarios.
- If you are bringing your kids along for the ride, remember that any distractions on the road are unsafe. Younger children can sometimes create a stressful environment for driving, so it is essential to prepare. Make sure they are buckled up securely. Also, make sure to have plenty of games, toys, and other forms of entertainment to keep them quiet and busy. Explain to your children the importance of distraction-free driving and consider implementing a rewards-based system for good behavior.
- If you have teens or young adults driving, be sure to lay down the ground rules before they hit the road. Especially caution them if they plan on driving with large groups of friends. Studies show that high occupancy vehicles with younger drivers are less safe and more prone to accidents. Also, stress that if they are intoxicated or impaired in any way, they will need to find another way to their destination such as having a designated driver.
- Pay attention to weather forecasts. The summer months can produce very stormy weather. These systems often occur spontaneously without warning, so check local forecasts before hitting the road and schedule your drive times accordingly.
- Pay attention to the calendar. Weekends and the days leading up to July 4th are often the most dangerous periods for driving.
- Avoid any form of distracted driving, which includes smartphone usage. This ensures that drivers fully pay attention to the road and significantly reduces the risk of an accident. Whether the driver is texting or engaged in a conversation with a passenger, they risk endangering themselves and others.
Conclusion
The attorneys and staff at Stillman & Friedland wish you a safe and healthy summer driving season. We hope you enjoyed reading our blog on summer safety driving tips for 2022! If you or a family member has been involved in an accident, contact our Nashville-based office at 615-244-2111 for a free and confidential consultation.
Because we care….
