The arrival of summer features warmer weather, longer days and a lot of fun. It’s a time when people are eager to embrace the sun, unwind at barbecues, visit the beach and embark on memorable road trips.
Unfortunately, all that relaxation can sometimes cause drivers to take chances they shouldn’t – and that can turn summer fun into tragedy if it leads to a serious wreck.
Driving after consuming alcohol at a barbecue
Summer is synonymous with outdoor gatherings and barbecues, where drinks often flow freely. While enjoying a few alcoholic drinks responsibly is certainly acceptable, it becomes a significant problem when drivers choose to get behind the wheel afterward. Alcohol impairs a driver’s judgment, coordination, vision and reaction times, making it dangerous to operate a vehicle. To prevent accidents, always designate a sober driver, use rideshare services or consider staying overnight where you are if you’ve had a few too many.
Driving in bare feet after going to the beach
After a lovely day at the beach, the last thing most people want to do is put on their shoes. However, driving barefoot can pose serious risks. When you drive without proper footwear, your feet lack the grip and stability necessary to operate the pedals effectively. Sand or water on your feet may also cause slippage, reducing your control over your vehicle. It’s much safer to keep a pair of driving shoes or sandals in your car to ensure safe and comfortable driving after visiting the beach.
Driving while sleep-deprived on road trips
Road trips and family vacations are popular summer activities, but long hours behind the wheel can lead to fatigue and drowsiness. Don’t underestimate the dangers of drowsy driving. Fatigue impairs cognitive function and reaction times similar to alcohol intoxication. – and some think fatigue is actually worse. When you’re fatigued, your ability to concentrate diminishes, increasing the likelihood of accidents. To play it safe, plan your road trips with regular rest breaks for rest. If you start feeling tired, pull over at a safe location, take a short nap (or switch drivers, if possible).
Despite doing your part as a responsible driver to make sure that the roadways are safe, you can always still end up in a wreck due to another driver’s negligence. If that happens, you have every right to ask for fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Seeking legal guidance is a good place to start.
