Summer Road Trip Safety Tips To Reduce Maryland Car Accident Risks
Summer is the perfect time for Maryland families to hit the road, whether you’re heading to the beach, the Blue Ridge Mountains, or points beyond. But before you pack the cooler and load up the car, it’s important to plan for more than just your destination. Summer road trips bring increased traffic, heat-related vehicle issues, and distracted or aggressive drivers, all of which increase your risks on the road.
If your trip takes an unexpected turn, our Maryland car accident attorneys are here to help. In the meantime, take a few extra precautions before and during your trip to keep yourself and your passengers safe.
Make Safety a Top Priority When Planning Summer Road Trips In Maryland
As the unofficial kick-off to summer, the American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that as many as 40 million people plan on hitting the road over Memorial Day weekend. While weekends and holidays are the busiest times, traffic is heavy throughout the summer season.
If you are planning a road trip this year, make safety a top priority and take steps to prepare before getting behind the wheel. This includes:
- Get a full vehicle inspection, and have a mechanic check your brakes, battery, coolant, hoses, tires, and air conditioning system.
- Check your tires, as heat increases the risk of blowouts, especially on worn or underinflated tires.
- Top off engine oil, coolant, transmission, brake, and windshield washer fluid.
- Pack an emergency kit with water, snacks, jumper cables, a flashlight, a basic tool kit, first aid supplies, and a phone charger.
- Plan your route ahead of time and check for road construction, closures, or bad weather, all of which can slow down your trip.
- Share your itinerary and estimated arrival time with friends or family.
- Get a good night’s rest prior to your trip.
Road Trip Safety Tips For Maryland Drivers
Once you are all packed up and ready to hit the road, turn your focus toward defensive driving. Holiday weekends, summer festivals, and beach traffic mean more congestion and increase the likelihood of car accidents in Maryland. To reduce the risks, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends these tips:
- Avoid distractions: Put down your phone, avoid fiddling with the radio, and let passengers handle navigation.
- Follow the speed limit and adjust for weather or traffic conditions.
- Take breaks every two hours to prevent drowsy driving.
- Be considerate of other motorists and refrain from aggressive driving behavior.
- Once you reach your destination, use a designated driver or a rideshare service if you plan on drinking.
If a Crash Happens, Contact Our Experienced Maryland Car Accident Attorneys For Help
Summer road trip car accidents in Maryland are common and can cause severe injuries. Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP is here to help and offers the professional, experienced legal representation you need to protect your rights.
To get the compensation you need to cover property damages, medical bills, lost wages, and other costs, contact our office. Request a consultation today with our Maryland car accident attorneys.
Sources:
news.eastcentral.aaa.com/news/releases-20240521
nhtsa.gov/summer-driving-tips
