With clear skies and longer days, summertime may not seem like a particularly dangerous time to be behind the wheel. But whether you’re headed to the lake or taking a cross-country road trip, this season can present unique risks that can make driving dangerous. Rather than getting into a collision and having to hire an auto accident lawyer to protect your rights, you can follow these five tips for safer driving.

5 Strategies to Prevent Auto Accidents in the Summer

1. Prioritize Preventive Maintenance

Worn parts, overheating, fluid leaks, and blown tires are just a few car troubles that can cause your vehicle to behave unreliably in the summer. To avoid surprises on the road, you should have a trusted mechanic inspect and tune-up your vehicle early in the season. These professionals will make sure all vital areas—such as fluids, belts, brakes, and tires—are in good condition to handle the heat.

2. Respect Speed Limits

No matter the season, speeding violations are a top reason behind car crashes. Since your car cannot stop as quickly when it’s speeding, it’s important to follow all posted limits. You should also lower your speed accordingly if you are driving in the rain, on curvy cliffs, or through construction zones.

3. Pack for Visibility

If you’re packing for a road trip, make sure all luggage and coolers are secure in your car and low enough so that they don’t block your view. If the trunk is too crowded, you might have trouble seeing clearly and face a greater risk of a collision when you merge or reverse.

4. Wear Sunglasses

Designed to block out both UVA and UVB rays, broad-spectrum sunglasses will help shield you from sunlight that could cause distracting glare and impair your visibility. By darkening your surroundings, this accessory will make it easier for you to see possible obstructions on the road.

5. Share the Road

The summer weather often increases the number of pedestrians and bike riders out on the roads. While these parties must obey traffic laws, they may not have as much visibility as drivers. That’s why auto accident lawyers encourage motorists to always control their speed, give the right-of-way to passing parties, and check all blind spots before changing lanes or turning.

 If you’ve been injured in a car crash, Henry & Williams P.C. will help you seek out the compensation you deserve. Based in West Plains, MO, this law firm offers comprehensive support for all types of personal injury—including those related to auto collisions and medical malpractice. To learn more about these services, visit this firm online. If you’d like to schedule a convenient consultation with a top-rated auto accident lawyer, call (417) 256-8133.