Summer is officially here, which means the 100 deadly days of summer – between Memorial Day and Labor Day – are also upon us. This is the time of year when car accidents and traffic fatalities increase significantly, so it’s important to be aware of the dangers and take precautions.
Why is there an increase in accidents, and how can you avoid them?
Many factors contribute to this trend. There are more cars on the road as people take advantage of the warmer weather to travel. In addition, many young drivers are out of school and have more free time to drive. Unfortunately, this combination of factors often leads to tragedy.
Every driver can help make the roads safer by taking some simple precautions:
- Plan your route and allow extra time for travel to avoid getting frustrated and rushing, leading to mistakes.
- Make sure your car is in good working order before heading out by checking the tires, brakes, and fluids.
- Pay attention to the weather forecast and plan accordingly. If there is a chance of severe weather, consider delaying your trip or taking an alternate route.
- Be aware of your surroundings and drive defensively. This means being on the lookout for distracted drivers, aggressive drivers, and unexpected obstacles on the road. Also, be prepared for an increase in motorcyclists, bikers, and pedestrians.
Despite the risks, it’s still important to get out and enjoy the summer. Just be sure to take precautions while driving, wear your seatbelt, and obey all traffic laws. While there will be reckless drivers on the road, you will know that you have done your part to keep Oklahoma’s roadways safe.