ARE THE ROADS SAFER IN THE SUMMER? THINK AGAIN . . .

Driving in the summer is not necessarily safer than driving in the winter months.  At times, the summer roads can be more deceptive than icy roads in winter or floods during springtime. According to the driving statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), from July to August, during the years 2006 to 2009, there was an increased fatality rates during the summer months.

One reason for the increase in driving fatalities is that school is out for the summer which results in more teens on roads and highways. Students Against Destructive Decisions reports that teens spend approximately 44% more time driving during summer than they do during the school year.  Naturally, the more drivers there are on the roads, the higher risk of accidents.

In addition, many vacationers choose the summer months for their trips.  Due to the high costs of flights, travelers often chose to drive to their destinations.   What results is congested roads and an increase in car accidents because of unpredictable driving from others.

Further, because of the nice weather, road construction is generally prevalent during summer months. This increased road construction has also led to a rise in accidents on highways.  With traffic lanes narrowed or reduced, as well as intrusive barricades and traffic congestion, this "perfect summer storm" can be problematic. In 2009, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reported nearly 700 fatalities resulted from car crashes in construction zones.

Finally, due to the increased temperature, more cyclists are utilizing the roads during summer. This forces motorists to share the road with cyclists, which can be a difficult, dangerous but extremely important task.  

As you enjoy the last bit of your summer, it is vitally important to stay safe and alert while driving, as there can be an increased accident rate for drivers. If you or someone you know has been injured in a vehicle accident as a result of another person's negligence, we strongly recommend that you contact an experienced personal injury attorney, such as the professionals at Smith Horras, P.A., along with seeking immediate medical attention.