Chicago summer driving is a fantastic way to get out of the house and enjoy many of the fun activities in the Chicago area this summer, like visiting Navy Pier or Millennium Park. However, many people feel the same way, which can lead to heavy traffic and higher chances of a Chicago car accident. To help you and the drivers in your household stay safe on the road this summer, the Chicago injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe offer the five safety tips below.
1) Watch out for Summer Construction
Construction is abundant during the summer months, thanks to a combination of warm temperatures and extended daylight. As such, you need to watch out for construction workers, cones, and equipment, and follow the speed limit when moving through these zones.
Further, be on the lookout for closed traffic lanes in or near construction zones and follow all signs for detours. Ultimately, there is much more to pay attention to when driving in or near construction zones. So, keep your focus on the road instead of the many distractions in the vehicle. You can always change the radio station or adjust the air conditioner once you exit the construction zone and put the cruise control back on.
2) Give Teen Drivers Extra Space During Chicago Summer Driving
The roads are loaded with inexperienced teen drivers during the summer months. These youngsters are away from school and have plenty of free time. Much of that free time may be used for Chicago summer driving. Beware of these teen drivers and give them extra space.
Turn on your blinker well before turning, and proceed with caution as soon as you know a teen driver is in your vicinity.
3) Reduce Distractions
Part of the problem with sharing the road with inexperienced teen drivers is their tendency to fall prey to distracted driving. Cell phones, GPS systems, music, hands-free calling, social media apps, and other electronic distractions can pull a driver’s attention when the focus should be squarely on the road.
Put your phone, portable gaming device, and other distractions away in glove compartments or other spaces to avoid the temptation to use them at red lights, traffic jams, etc.
4) Summer Heat Heightens the Chances of Equipment Failure
Just about every part of the country has experienced near-record highs in recent summers. Automotive equipment has the potential to fail when temperatures reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit and rise toward triple digits. Tires are especially vulnerable to high temperatures since air pressure rises with temperature. To prevent a heat-related mishap during Chicago summer driving, make sure your tires are not over-inflated. Additionally, schedule a pre-summer maintenance check. A mechanic can ensure your tires and all other car parts are ready for hotter temperatures.
5) Avoid Chicago Summer Driving Complacency
The sun is out, the cool breeze glides through your hair, and you do not have a worry in the world. This is the type of complacency you must avoid when driving. Though Chicago summer driving carries fewer challenges in the way of mother nature, these busy roads can prove difficult to navigate.
Add in the fact that summer drivers are much more likely to be inebriated, and it is easy to see why there are about two times as many traffic fatalities in the summer than in the remainder of the year’s months combined. Be extra vigilant for erratic or impaired drivers.
Contact a Chicago Summer Driving Accident Attorney
If you’ve been in an accident caused by the negligence or recklessness of another, contact Lerner and Rowe for immediate assistance. Our Chicago car accident lawyers are here to help you. Not only is our team dedicated to seeing you win maximum compensation for your injuries, but they’re also committed to helping you carry the emotional burden of your injuries so that you can focus on recovery and rest.
Reach out to us by dialing 708-222-2222 or connecting with one of our LiveChat agents. Our staff is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Furthermore, we do not charge any fees unless money has been recovered on your behalf. To get the settlement and treatment that you deserve, call Lerner and Rowe today.