After being stuck in the pandemic lockdown of 2020, Wisconsinites are treating the summer of 2021 as the season of “revenge travel.” They are hitting the road, ready to explore all the Badger State has to offer while venturing cross-country as well. And while it’s nice not having to deal with frigid temps, snow, ice and white-out conditions, the summer brings its own set of driving dangers. In fact, more accidents occur during the summer months than the winter months.
To help keep you and your family safe on the road this summer, Di Renzo & Bomier has curated a list of summer driving hazards and safety tips to avoid them.
Increased Traffic:
More people on the road means more congestion, and a greater likelihood of getting into an accident. So, before you pack up the car or RV, keep the following safety tips in mind:
Be aware of impatient drivers who show signs of road rage and out-of-towners who are not familiar with the roads.
Slow down in heavy traffic and allow for more time to get to your destination, especially on holidays and weekends.
More motorcycles:
Summer brings the roar of a thousand motorcycles whizzing by. When sharing the road with motorcyclists, make sure to:
Leave more distance between you and a motorcycle (at least 3-4 seconds’ worth).
Check twice when changing lanes, making a turn, or entering a freeway or expressway, and watch your blind spots to avoid a dangerous collision.
Stay alert at intersections.
Goodbye winter, hello construction season:
It wouldn’t be summer in Wisconsin without a ton of road construction. To keep safe in construction zones:
Be on the lookout for orange signs, barrels, flags and flashing lights.
Keep a safe braking distance from other vehicles and traffic barriers.
Assume workers are present. These people live and work in our communities - let’s keep them safe!
Merge early before entering a work zone.
For up-to-the-minute information on work zones that may affect your travel download the free 511 Wisconsin mobile app, dial 511 or visit 511wi.gov
Tire blowouts:
The summer heat can cause the air within tires to expand, increasing the risk of a blowout if the tread or tire is worn down. Before the rubber hits the road, make sure to:
Schedule regular tire pressure checks.
Do-it-yourself: use a pressure gauge to fill any tire(s) that are under-inflated up to the air pressure recommended by the manufacturer (consult your owner’s manual or the number on the “Tire and Loading Information” on your driver’s door or door jamb).
Teenage drivers:
School is out for the summer which means more teenage drivers are on the road. Teen drivers tend to be less experienced and more distracted, so stay vigilant.
Extreme heat:
High temperatures can make the interior of your vehicle feel like a sauna. Metal seat belt buckles, plastic latches on car seats, even door handles can become hot enough to cause burns. To keep yourself and your car cool:
Park in the shade.
Use a windshield sun protector.
Avoid traveling between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. which are the hottest parts of the day.
Never leave pets or children in the car unattended.
Fatigue:
The sun can be draining and make you sleepy.
If you are tired, take a break. All Wisconsin rest areas are open. These facilities offer restrooms and a break from highway travel, and most offer vending machines.
Stay hydrated – keep a bottle of water in your car.
Sun glare:
The glare of the sun can greatly affect visibility and make sunny summer driving very dangerous.
Keep a pair of sunglasses handy in your car.
Injured in an Accident?
If you or a loved one have been hurt in a car accident, Di Renzo & Bomier offers a free, no obligation consultation to discuss your case. Call (920) 383-3310 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment.
We represent accident victims from Neenah, Appleton, Green Bay and across Northeast Wisconsin.
The content of this blog was prepared by Law Offices of DiRenzo & Bomier, LLC for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to solicit business or provide legal advice. Laws differ by jurisdiction, and the information in this blog may not apply to you. You should seek the assistance of an attorney licensed to practice in your state before taking any action. Using this blog site does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Law Offices of DiRenzo & Bomier, LLC.