Summer driving can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to be aware of the risks and take steps to stay safe on the road during this hotter and more relaxed time of year. Here are a few tips to help you drive safely in the summer months: –

Check your fluids – Before you hit the road, make sure your car’s engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid are all at the proper levels. You should also check your tire pressure and make sure your windshield washer fluid is full. Investing in all-season tyres could be a good idea.

Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages, and avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you. Also, remember to take breaks and pull over every so often to rest and stretch your legs.

Avoid driving during the hottest part of the day – If possible, try to avoid driving between 10am and 4pm, when the sun is at its strongest. If you must drive during these hours, be sure to take extra precautions to stay cool and hydrated.

Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion – If you start to feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous, pull over immediately and take a break in the shade. Drink plenty of fluids and give yourself plenty of time to cool down before getting back behind the wheel.

Watch out for road hazards – In the summer, there are several road hazards that you need to be aware of, including:

• Potholes can be caused by heavy rains or extreme temperatures. They can damage your car’s tires and suspension, so it’s important to avoid them if possible.
• Debris on the road can include rocks, branches, and other objects. It can be thrown up by other cars, so it’s important to drive carefully and be prepared to swerve if necessary.
• Animals are more active in the summer, so you’re more likely to see them on the road. Be especially careful when driving at night or in rural areas.
• Construction zones are common in the summer as road crews make repairs or improvements. Be sure to obey all traffic signs and signals in construction zones.

Drive defensively – With more people on the road in the summer, it’s important to drive defensively and be prepared for anything. Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you and be aware of your surroundings.

Obey the speed limit – Speeding is a major cause of accidents, especially in the summer when roads are wet, and visibility is reduced. Be sure to obey the speed limit and drive at a safe speed for the conditions, regardless of what the road signs might tell you. Just because you CAN do 60, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you should.

Eyesight foresight – Keeping sunglasses on hand and making use of your sun visor will help to reduce the risk of suffering from glare whilst driving, which can be incredibly distracting.

Keep it cool – Nobody wants to get into a car and burn themselves on a steering wheel or melt away in the summer heat, so taking preventative measures to keep your car’s interior cooler can not only keep it more comfortable but keep it safer for you and other passengers. If you don’t want to put the air conditioning on, at least open the windows!