Summer Driving

So the summer months have (finally) arrived, and you can’t wait to take the car for a spin with the roof down or windows open?

Whilst this may sound like a glorious idea, you must first consider the potential dangers of driving in the summer:

–          Summer weather means summer drivers. The combination of long bright days, dry roads and soaring temperatures brings about an inexplicable positive change in many people. This state of euphoria often leads to many drivers, particularly teens and younger motorists, pushing their vehicles to go further and faster than before – unsurprisingly there is a direct correlation between the temperature and the number of accidents on UK roads.

–          Higher congestion – Better weather brings those who are usually hermits throughout winter out into the open, and onto our roads. This increase in people behind the wheel leads to more difficult driving conditions, and beware mostly of drivers at holiday destinations, who may not be familiar with the roads.

–          Car trouble- High temperatures can cause any number of issues with cars, such as engine overheating and tyre blowouts. Try to plan ahead for these possibilities, and regularly check your engine coolant level.

–          Road conditions – Whilst it is refreshingly unusual to experience good driving conditions in British summertime, beware of the pitfalls. High amounts of glare on the roads and bright sunlight can obscure your vision, struggling with hay fever can cause dangers behind the wheel, fires can become more likely around dry grass and embankments, and strong heat can make you drowsy whilst driving, especially on long journeys such as going on holidays.

Summer can be the best time of year, so make the most of it, just make sure you drive sensibly and safely at all times!

Safe driving, and have a great summer, from Britannia!

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