During the long cold winter we think about our safety a lot. Will my car start when it goes way below freezing? Will I loose control when driving on ice and snow? During the summer it is easy to put these thoughts to rest. Summer is about travel, beaches, picnics, and other seasonal fun.
While we are enjoying summer, let’s not forget that we still need to be cognizant of safety. More people die in motor vehicle crashes during the summer. Why you ask? It a combination of more miles driven and high risk behavior.
So let’s go over some basics:
• Front seat or back, everyone should buckle up! NO EXCEPTIONS!
• Drinking or Drugged Driving is never okay.
• Night Driving is higher risk than daytime.
• Don’t forget to rest. Summer may be short, but falling asleep behind the wheel, won’t make it longer. When traveling; remember to stop and get out of the vehicle at least every 2 hours.
• Never leave children or pets in a hot car, even for a quick stop. Remember New York State law also does not allow you to leave a vehicle running and unattended.
Before you head out on any road trip, make sure your vehicle is ready. Hot weather causes nearly as many breakdowns as winter’s cold. Even if you’re not due for service, a quick inspection is a must. Grab your owner’s manual, open your hood, and check all the fluids. Also check tire pressure, including your spare. Don’t forget to make sure your tires have plenty of tread. A quick thunderstorm can make the roadways slick. Hydroplaning is a real safety concern. Never use your cruise control on slick roadways. Grab a friend to help you check all the lights. Don’t forget back-up, flasher, and all the brake lights. It would also be a great idea to have a few bottles of water stashed in the car, just in case.
Now let’s get out there and enjoy what the summer season has to offer!!
Mike Sweeney is a Traffic Safety Educator at AAA Hudson Valley.
