Every summer has its own story; safety remains to be a priority especially when it comes to driving. Summer means no school and most teens are out on the road. According to the study made by AAA, the automobile research and educational group, teenagers are more likely to get in car accidents during the summer.
AAA revealed that the number of deaths in teen-related accidents increases 10 per day. It likewise found an average of 1,022 people died during the 100 days after Memorial Day during each of the last five years in teen-related crashes.
Statistics
- Distracted driving contributed to 58.8% of teen-related accidents.
- Texting while driving is 23 times riskier than driving while not distracted.
- Crashes involving drivers aged 16 to 18 increases during the summer months.
- More car crashes and vehicular-related fatalities and injuries happen in July and August.
- In 2015, traffic deaths rose in Kentucky, and many of these occurred during the summer travel season.
Summer Driving Tips
The hazards of summer driving are far more dangerous than you think. These summer-related crashes, however, are preventable.
Before traveling on the road, be sure that your car has been serviced properly – from tune-ups, battery checks, tire rotations, and oil changes. It is recommended to keep your tires inflated to the right pressure. Doing this will save you time and money; and at the same time, reduce the likelihood of breakdowns or accidents. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Agency, a tire 25% high is as twice as likely as a properly inflated tire to rupture.
With every summer trip, we get excited about the destination. It may be the beach or the mountains. Regardless of the place you’re going to, you always have to buckle up every time. Whether you are the driver, or passenger, always wear your seat belt. If you are bringing kids, it is a good chance to set an example.
When on the road, stay alert and focused. Distracted driving is deadly and there are facts and figures to prove it. Resist the urge to text, call, update your status on Facebook, or do any other thing that would make you distracted. Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Remember that a text can wait. No text or online post is worth a life.
As a Kentucky Accident Attorney, I am pledged to safe driving no matter what season we are in. Previously, I have given several summer safety driving tips and I will continue doing to remind us of our responsibilities whenever we are on the road.