Each season presents its own driving challenges
In the winter, snowbanks can block our view while ice can cause us to lose control. In the spring, rapid thaw/freeze cycles can make driving unpredictable.
But things are different in the summer. In the summer, it feels like we are in complete control of the vehicle because there is no snow or ice or a rapid thaw/freeze cycle. The roads are dry, the view is clear, and the sun is shining. The summer can still be an unsafe time to drive if we're not careful.
Tips for driving safely in the summer
- More people are out in the summer – walking, running, driving – and that increases congestion on the roads. Specifically, more children are out playing in the summer, and because there is no school the next day, they might be playing even later
- More construction takes place during the summer, which adds additional complexity to our drive. We might need to take a different route or navigate a whole bunch of orange construction pylons
- Dry roads trick us into thinking that we are inherently safe. When roads are dry, it's easy to think that nothing can go wrong. But vehicles still lose control on dry roads, especially in the dusty prairie conditions
- Thunderstorms and rain can quickly start, turning a nice dry drive into a flash flood. It doesn’t take a lot of water for a vehicle to lose control and hydroplane so if there is a lot of rain in a very short time, it becomes increasingly unsafe to drive
- Keep both hands on the wheel at all times. In the winter, when our vehicles are buttoned up tight against the cold, it's easy to keep both hands on the wheel. In the summer, with the window down and the music playing, it's tempting to drive with one relaxed finger hooked over the steering wheel instead of with both hands on the wheel. Don't do that! Stay safe and stay in control with both hands on the wheel
- Don't drive in flip flops or sandals. Flip flops and sandals too easily slip around on the pedal or get caught on the pedal. Keep driving shoes in the vehicle so you can drive safely
The summer is a great time to be outdoors, especially after those long, cold Canadian winters. We should enjoy that weather while we can. Summer can fool us into thinking that we are more in control of our vehicles (compared to other seasons that we have to drive in). Don't be fooled. Drive safe by following these tips.
If you get into a collision this summer, bring your vehicle to Boyd Autobody & Glass for a fast, safe, professional repair. You'll love the service and you'll leave with a safe, restored vehicle to get back to enjoying your summer.
