Summer Most Dangerous on Roads

It may come as a surprise that the most dangerous months to get behind the wheel are not January or February when the roads can be covered with snow and ice. In fact, it is the summer months that have some of the highest number of fatal car accidents. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), there were over 6,000 fatalities between July and September of 2013.  These statistics have led to the time period between Memorial Day and Labor Day being dubbed “the 100 deadliest days on the road.”

Summer is the peak travel time for many, which means that there are more people on the road anxious to get to their vacation destination. Regardless of whether you are heading to the beach, a family party, or simply driving home from work on a warm, sunny summer afternoon, there are things you can do to minimize your chances of being involved in a motor vehicle accident.

• Maintain Proper Inflation: When the temperatures rise, the air inside your tires can expand, which can lead to blowouts, particularly if your tires are worn. Check your tire inflation on a regular basis to make sure the tires are in safe driving condition.
• Check Weather Reports for Severe Summer Storms: Extreme weather changes can happen quickly during the summer, which can cause hazardous driving conditions. Reduce your driving speed and maintain a safe following distance between yourself and the car in front of you, especially during a storm that includes heavy rain, lighting, or hail.
• Share the Road with Bicyclists and Pedestrians: More people are out and about during the warm summer months, either walking, jogging, or bicycling, so it is important to always be alert when driving through intersections and crosswalks.
• Obey Posted Speed Limits: Do not be tempted to drive too fast when you are eager to get to your destination. It is not safe for you, or the motorists and pedestrians around you.
• Do Not Drink and Drive: If you are going to a party where alcohol will be served, make sure that you have a designated driver who will be responsible for getting everyone home safely.

Teenagers Most at Risk for Summer Car Accidents

Driving during the summer months can be particularly dangerous for teens. According to data from the National Center for Health Statistics, car crashes are the leading cause of death in 15-20 year olds. When it comes to texting and driving, the vast majority of teens admit to doing it, even though they know it is dangerous. In addition, over 75 percent of teens surveyed said that they see their parents texting and driving often, which influences their behavior. Parents can help prevent teen drivers from driving distracted by always driving the way they want their children to drive. Teens tend to mimic adult behavior– both good and bad– so driving carefully with complete focus may lead your children to do the same.

Also, like anything else, the more you practice the better you will be. Encourage your teen to practice driving on a regular basis. This will help develop confidence for when they begin to drive alone. You can also consider having your child sign an agreement that has specific expectations for how they will conduct themselves during driving. Teach them that driving a car is a privilege, not a right, and that it comes with a great deal of responsibility.

Maryland Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Maximum Compensation for Those Injured in Car Accidents

If you or a loved has been injured in a car accident this summer due to the negligence of another driver, you are urged to contact our Maryland car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. Our experienced, dedicated team will thoroughly examine the details of your accident, and secure the financial compensation you deserve. For a free case review, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie and Towson, allowing us to represent injured accident victims and their families throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Parkville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood and Elkridge.