Summertime In Pennsylvania Brings More Crowded Highways And Also More Accidents
Typically when we think of summertime, we think of perfect weather, sunshine, , relaxation, gin and tonics, picnics, days at the pool or beach and nothing but smiles. Unfortunately after Memorial Day weekend, the highways are more crowded as people flock to their beaches, picnics and social gatherings which also may be accompanied by increased drinking and other social libations that do not mix well with driving. Additionally with summertime comes bar and drinking season which is in full swing as people let loose after work and on weekends at outdoor cafes, night clubs and other social gatherings as they recover from the months of winter hibernation. Not so surprisingly, summertime is usually the time that sees the highest number of catastrophic injuries and fatalities as a result of car accidents, as well as motorcycle accidents. When driving on the highways in the summer, it is important to note that many asphalt roads and highways have an oil residue on their surface or beneath their surface which rises with increased heat from the sunshine. When it rains and the water contacts this oil residue, a very slippery surface is formed and if it has not rained in a long time, there is more oil on the road for the water to contend with creating a very unsafe oil/water reaction which also leads to hydroplaning and loss of vehicle control.
As an experienced car accident lawyer for the last 30 years, I have come to notice that some of our most tragic cases have occurred in summertime due to the following factors: less traction as a result of rain or oil as specified above, conduct of other drivers who were drinking or not paying attention as mentioned above and decreased visibility caused during heavy summer rain storms. It is more important than ever in summer to drive carefully and defensively. We offer the following suggestions reiterated by the National Safety Counsel to avoid accidents:
1. Pull into traffic slowly.
2. Watch for red light runners.
3. Keep both hands on the steering wheel.
4. Watch for kids.
5. Perform engine maintenance regularly and make sure your tires are properly inflated.
6. Scan 12 seconds ahead always concentrating on the area where you will be driving
in 10 to 12 seconds.
7. For highway driving, keep positioned far enough from other cars so if someone were
to suddenly stop or swerve you could avoid them.
8. Look backwards when backing out.
9. Do not tailgate.
10. Keep windows and windshields from fogging.
11. Check your windshield wiper blades.
12. Make sure your tires are inspected and properly inflated.
13. Be aware of oil on highways.
14. Drive more slowly and carefully on wet roads and in rain.
15. Do not drive and drink - always have a designated driver.
16. If taking medications which may cause drowsiness such as allergy medication
or antihistamines (which affect your reflexes and ability to concentrate) - Don’t Drive.
17. Check your car’s fluid levels - you do not want to stall or overheat on a crowded
highway on a stifling hot summer day.
18. Be courteous to other drivers. No one owns the road so treat others with respect
and report any suspicious driving activity to authorities.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please contact one of the experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Reiff & Bily for a free no obligation consultation at 1-800-421-9595 or online at www.reiffandbily.com.
