Drivers don’t have to worry about snow or ice in the summer, but the roads are packed with pedestrians. Bicyclists, walkers, and playing children are enjoying the weather, but all it takes is a moment’s distraction to cause a tragedy.
Other driving hazards in the summer include sun glare, heatstroke, and your vehicle overheating. Although there are easy steps you can take to combat these dangers, not all drivers are proactive about safety.
If you were injured by a negligent motorist in Iowa, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. A Cedar Rapids personal-injury lawyer will evaluate your crash, gather evidence, talk to witnesses, structure your claim, and help you fight for the maximum settlement.
Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a free consultation. Until then, read on to learn five hazards to watch out for in the summer:
1. Sun Glare
Sun glare can be a deadly distraction – particularly at dusk and dawn, when the sun is low on the horizon. The American Automobile Association reminds drivers to use their sun visors and purchase polarized glasses to reduce the effects of sun glare.
If the sun temporarily blinds you, it is important that you slow down gradually. The driver behind you may also be blinded, so braking abruptly could lead to a rear-end collision.
2. Heatstroke
Heatstroke can be fatal. Children and pets often succumb to heatstroke if they spend too much time in hot vehicles.
Drivers may also suffer the effects of heatstroke, such as nausea and disorientation, on hot days. These can adversely affect your alertness behind the wheel. You can avoid this problem by installing gel seat covers, parking in the shade, and using your air conditioner.
3. Pedestrians
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is one crash-related pedestrian fatality every two hours in the United States. In the summer, there is an increase in the number of walkers, joggers, and children on Iowa roads, which contributes to a spike in pedestrian accidents.
Watch out for pedestrians in the summer – especially when you drive near parks and schools, and in residential areas. In 2013, 20 percent of children who died in traffic accidents were pedestrians.
4. Bicycles and Motorcycles
Warm weather inspires bicyclists and motorcyclists to hit the road. Be sure to check your blind spots carefully whenever you change lanes or turn. Also, leave plenty of space between your vehicle and motorcyclists or bikers when overtaking.
5. Overheating Vehicles
Breaking down on the side of the road is more than an inconvenience – especially if you are on a busy highway. All it takes is one distracted, impaired, or drowsy driver to drift onto the shoulder and cause a tragedy.
Be sure to service your vehicle early in the summer. If you break down, move your vehicle as far off the road as possible. Set out flares or a warning triangle, and turn on your hazard lights. Open your hood so other drivers know you are in distress, and call for help.
If you were injured in a wreck that another driver caused, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. A car accident attorney in Iowa will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim.
As the victim of another motorist’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, health-care bills, and noneconomic damages. Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a free initial consultation.