As temperatures rise and road trips beckon, summer driving can bring its own set of challenges that impact your safety on the road. At Shield Accident Management NI, our priority is your year-round safety. Here are detailed tips for driving in the Summer season to ensure you navigate any weather safely.
Summer Driving Tips
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), summer is statistically the riskiest time of year for road users, particularly in terms of traffic fatalities.
- Check Your Coolant System: The high temperatures of summer can stress your vehicle’s cooling system. Prior to driving, check coolant levels and inspect hoses for any signs of leaks or damage. It’s crucial to ensure your radiator is in good condition to avoid overheating issues.
- Inspect Your Tires: High temperatures on the pavement increase the risk of tire blowouts. Check tire pressure regularly, including the spare. Shield Accident Management NI advises tires are properly inflated and have proper tread depth to maintain traction on hot surfaces.
- Service your Air Conditioning: A properly functioning air conditioning system is essential for comfort and safety during summer travels. Have your AC system inspected and serviced to ensure your AC can effectively cool you during summer adventures.
- Test Your Battery: Hot weather can accelerate battery fluid evaporation and increase the risk of battery failure. Test your battery to verify its condition and consider replacement if it’s nearing the end of its life.
- Pack an Emergency Kit: Pack essentials such as a flashlight, jumper cables, basic tools, drinking water, non-perishable snacks, a first aid kit, and a blanket. Be prepared for unexpected roadside emergencies with Shield Accident Management NI’s safety-first approach.
Safe Driving Practices
- Stay Hydrated: It’s crucial to stay hydrated while driving, especially in hot weather or on long trips. Keeping water handy helps maintain alertness and concentration, ensuring you stay safe on the road. Shield Accident Management NI stresses the importance of staying hydrated to prevent fatigue and enhance driving safety.
- Plan your Route: Before you start your journey, take time to plan your route using a reliable navigation system or map. This not only helps you avoid traffic jams but also allows you to anticipate any potential hazards along the way.
- Watch Your Speed: Always adhere to speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions. Driving at a safe speed ensures you have enough time to react to unexpected situations, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Beware of Sun Glare: Use sunglasses and keep your windshield clean to minimise sun glare, ensuring clear visibility and safer driving.
- Be Mindful of Vulnerable Road Users: Keep an eye out for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists who are more vulnerable on the road. Give them plenty of space when passing and always check your blind spots before changing lanes.
- Use Your Signals: Use turn signals and hazard lights to communicate your intentions clearly to other drivers. Consistently signalling before turning or changing lanes helps prevent misunderstandings and promotes smoother traffic flow.
Special Considerations for Summer Driving
- Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle : It’s important not to overload your vehicle during summer trips. Carrying too much weight can strain your vehicle, impacting its handling and braking capabilities. Remember to pack only what’s necessary and distribute the load evenly. This ensures a safer journey and reduces the risk of accidents. Remember, with Shield Accident Management NI, safety always comes first.
- Keep an Eye on Children and Pets: When travelling in hot weather, never leave children or pets unattended in a parked vehicle, even for a short time. Temperatures inside a parked car can rapidly rise to dangerous levels, increasing the risk of heatstroke.
- Stay Informed on Weather Conditions: Summer storms can unexpectedly bring heavy rain and strong winds. Stay informed with weather forecasts to prepare your driving plans accordingly and ensure safety on the road.
How does Shield Accident Management NI help?
At Shield Accident Management in NI, we’re here to help you stay safe on the road. Our NI accident management services provide support in the event of an accident, ensuring you can get back on the road quickly and safely. Here’s how we can assist:
- 24/7 Accident Support: Our team is available around the clock to provide immediate assistance when you need it most.
- Vehicle Recovery and Repairs: We take care of recovering your vehicle and managing the repair process to ensure high-quality repairs.
- Facilitating Replacement Vehicles: If your vehicle is off the road, we provide a like for like replacement vehicle to keep you moving.
- Insurance Liaison: We handle all communications with your insurance company, making the claims process smoother and reducing your stress.
- Legal Assistance: If necessary, we can provide legal support to help you navigate any legal challenges following an accident.
When you’re not at fault, choosing a company like Shield, protects your no-claims bonus, offering a smart, comprehensive solution for your accident management needs.
By following these seasonal driving tips and relying on the support of Shield Accident Management in NI, you can enjoy safer driving all year round. Stay prepared, stay alert, and know that Shield Accident Management is here to support you whenever you need us.