Whether you are planning a road trip this summer or sticking close to home, you run a higher risk of being injured in a car accident if you are on the road during this peak season. These dangerous accidents can also come with some expensive traffic citations.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that traffic crashes are indeed higher in the summer months than the rest of the year. Specifically, crash rates go up in July through the month of September. There are several reasons why this occurs.
Teen Drivers Are Out of School
One of the biggest reasons that there are more car crashes during the summer is that there are more teen drivers on the road. Teens are out of school and are on the road significantly more than when school is in session.
Unfortunately, teens are the most inexperienced drivers on our nation’s roads, and they are also the ones that are most likely to drive while distracted. Teens can become distracted when looking at cell phones, using a car stereo, or even speaking with other friends in the car.
More Drivers on Vacation
Once the kids are out of school for the summer, many families plan road trips, whether long-distance or just for the day. Depending on your destination or where you live, you may encounter some increased traffic due to these vacationing drivers.
Drivers on vacation pose several dangers. First, many are unfamiliar with the local roads. This can lead to erratic or distracted driving and even some unintended moving violations. Frustration can also bring about road rage, which is another cause of some serious crashes and traffic tickets.
Increased Road Construction
Most cities, counties, and states schedule major road construction projects for the summer months. Construction crews might take advantage of more favorable conditions to get as much done as possible, which can pose a hazard on the roads.
When roadway construction zones become a reality during the summer, there may also be more detours, temporary signals or signs, closed traffic lanes, and other changes to normal driving conditions. These changes can quickly lead to a car crash if drivers are not paying attention or are unfamiliar with the area.
Higher Chance of Vehicle Malfunctions
When the temperatures climb, your vehicle’s equipment can be affected, which increases the chance of an accident. Hot weather increases the likelihood of an engine overheating, but the greatest danger is to your car’s tires.
According to AAA, hot temperatures cause the air inside your vehicle’s tires to expand, which can lead to a blowout if your tires are well-worn. This is dangerous when your vehicle is moving and could lead to a crash.
More Pedestrians, Bicycles, and Motorcycles
When the weather warms up, there will be more people outside, which increases the chance of a crash. This includes children playing, pedestrians, and people riding their bicycles.
There will also be more motorcycle riders who want to take advantage of the favorable conditions. When all these people are sharing the road with cars and trucks, it can lead to an increased rate of crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
Other Factors
There are a few other factors that could lead to a higher rate of car crashes during the summer months. The first is the potential for heat exhaustion. A driver that spends too much time outside or sitting in a car on a long drive could easily become dehydrated and drowsy.
Another is the increased potential for DUI when celebrating summer. It’s natural to want to spend more time outdoors and even have a few cocktails, but it is against the law and dangerous to drive after drinking.
Charged with a Moving Violation in Mobile?
An expensive traffic ticket can ruin your summer. It would be a mistake to take moving violations in Alabama too lightly due to the mounting consequences of this state’s points system. Not only could you face expensive fines, but also a suspended license, and escalating insurance rates.
At Darley Law, LLC, our Mobile traffic violations attorney will review your situation and advise you of your options. We may be able to minimize the impact of your moving violation or even get your charges dismissed. Contact our office now at 251-441-7772 or reach us online to schedule an initial consultation.