We are used to hearing about the dangers of driving in the winter, when road conditions are often icy and slippery. Once summer comes, you may assume you are safer on the roads, but that is not necessarily true.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, drivers are at a higher risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accident during the summer than at any other time of year.
Additionally, fatal accidents are more likely to occur in the late afternoon, evenings or on weekends, especially holiday weekends such as Memorial Day weekend.
Road construction
There are many reasons for the increase in summer accidents. Most road construction in New Jersey is done in the summer, causing hazardous road conditions and increasing congestion on the roads.
Road construction can also require you to take detours and drive on unfamiliar roads, which can increase your risk of an accident.
Heavier traffic
Another reason is that there are simply more drivers on the roads in the summer. Many people take road trips or other vacations in the summer, leading to more traffic on the roads.
Sitting in traffic during the hot summer months usually results in fatigue and dehydration. Both these factors can affect your driving capability. Your reaction time may be slower, or your aggression could increase.
Drunk driving
Summer is the season for parties, celebrations and outdoor activities, and many people’s plans involve alcohol. This leads to more drunk drivers on the road in the summer.
All these reasons mean you should take extra care while driving in the summer, but sometimes no matter how safely you drive, you are involved in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence.
The aftermath of a car accident can be confusing and stressful. After treating your injuries, it can help to talk with a trusted professional about your legal options.
