Vehicle Safety in the Summer

Summertime presents us with wonderful opportunities to travel, whether up the street or across the country. It is a time of mobility and a time of getting together with the people we enjoy. Because we might spend more time in our vehicles during the summer months, it is important to be mindful of our habits. Vehicles get extremely hot on the inside during the summer season, so we may need to engage in different practices than ones we use when it is colder outside. Vehicle safety in the summer takes on greater significance than we might think.

One of the most important safety measures we can take is making sure we never, ever lock children or animals in our vehicles during the summertime. Cars and trucks trap heat inside, raising the temperatures of our vehicles very quickly. While it may seem a balmy 75 degrees outside, inside a locked vehicle the temperature could easily be over 100 degrees. That kind of heat could result in death, brain damage, and a variety of other life-changing ailments for anyone left locked in the vehicle. An integral part of vehicle safety in the summer is remembering to never leave living things in a vehicle.

Another safety rule to keep in mind is to never drink and drive. While this may seem like common sense, we need to understand that the summer heat will make our bodies respond to alcohol differently. Consuming alcoholic beverages is something that should be done in a relaxing environment. It is never acceptable to drink in a vehicle, whether or not the vehicle is moving. People get ticketed and arrested for DUIs while drinking in cars that have not been started. Vehicle safety in the summer tip number two is to keep all drinking and alcohol enjoyment confined to areas without wheels.

Texting and driving has become a major cause of traffic accidents. During the summer, we may schedule more outings with friends and family, presenting us with more need to contact people on the go. However, texting while driving is dangerous. When you need to answer the phone, read a text, or send a text, it is always safest to pull over to the side of the road and do so. That way, you are more likely to actually make it to your destination.

Accidents can happen in a blink of an eye. When it comes to vehicles, me must exercise every precaution because we could easily take lives when we are careless. Keeping these tips in mind for vehicle safety in the summer, you will not only enjoy yourself more, but you will also be able to enjoy your pets, friends, and relations. Be safe and be mindful to enjoy the summer to the fullest.