Summer brings beautiful weather, but it’s also a season with increased numbers of pedestrians and cyclists. When you drive this summer, be hyper-aware of your surroundings to avoid a collision. Learn more about this serious safety issue and how to maintain safe driving habits with the guide below.

The Importance of Safe Summer Driving

The Dangers for Cyclists & Pedestrians

In 2017, the New York City Department of Transportation reported 10,561 pedestrian injuries throughout the city and 106 pedestrian fatalities. Throughout the city, there were also 4,397 bicyclist injuries and 24 fatalities due to a motor vehicle collision. According to CNBC, the number of pedestrians killed throughout the United States in 2018 reached the highest number since 1990 — about 6,227.

Experts believe that this trend is a result of distracted driving. While many factors of distracted driving, such as eating and talking, have remained consistent over the past several decades, the ubiquitous nature of cell phones seems to have accelerated this trend. In addition, people are also buying larger vehicles. such as SUVs and trucks. This makes a collision involving pedestrians and cyclists more likely to be deadly.

How to Stay Safe

With the increased numbers of people traveling and enjoying the warm weather during the summer, it’s essential to take the proper precautions when driving. Always put your phone away while behind the wheel, and avoid carrying on conversations with other people in the car. Focus on driving, and double-check before switching lanes and making turns. Remember that pedestrians and cyclists are much harder to spot than other vehicles; instead of taking a quick glance, take a moment to make sure the path is clear. Take special care around cyclists, since they have the right to share the road with you. Don’t follow them too closely, and give them plenty of space while you pass them.

If an accident does happen, having a great repair shop to call will get you back on the road as soon as possible. Panorama Collision Inc. is open 60 hours a week for your repair needs. This family-owned and -operated shop in East Rochester, NY, provides a lifetime guarantee on all auto collision repairs as well as a complimentary loaner car that you can use while your vehicle is being worked on. Contact them at (585) 381-8667 to request a free estimate or visit them online to learn what steps you should take in the event of an accident.