Summer Road Trips: Tips for Avoiding Car Accidents

As the days get hotter and longer, more and more people are planning much-needed vacations. Since driving is still the most common mode of transportation, road trips are commonplace among vacationers. In fact, around 66% of travelers in the U.S. stated they were taking a road trip in 2024.

If you are one of the many Georgia residents looking forward to a little time away this summer, it’s crucial that you consider safety as part of your trip planning, especially if you are traveling by car.

Most Common Cause of Car Accidents

Driver distraction is the leading cause of car accidents. Whether from using smartphones, eating, adjusting the radio, talking to passengers, or trying to navigate, drivers are more distracted now than ever before. Your level of distraction is within your control in almost all situations, but avoiding collisions caused by another driver’s negligence is not as simple. Stay vigilant and watch for common signs of distracted driving, including swerving, erratic lane changes, and sudden braking.

Other common causes of car accidents include driving under the influence, speeding, and failure to yield.

Summer Road Trip Hazards

The summer months also present unique hazards that are less of a problem in other seasons. Keep the following tips in mind on any upcoming road trips:

Take Frequent Breaks

If you are going on a road trip this summer, make sure you take breaks to get out of your vehicle and walk around. This helps with body soreness and keeps you more alert. Not only do drivers need breaks from the road to stay as safe as possible, but cars also need to rest from time to time. Cars are more likely to overheat in the summer, and this is an especially common concern when driving long distances. Taking breaks can be beneficial for the driver and the car.

Check the Weather

Summer storms can begin with little notice when you’re on the road, and heavy rains lead to decreased visibility, slippery roads, and flash flooding. It’s a good idea to check the weather in each of the places you’ll be driving to avoid severe weather on your road trip. If a storm is in the forecast, look for places ahead of time where you can make a pitstop until it passes or postpone the trip, if needed.

Have a Navigator

While a solo road trip can be an incredible experience, it does make some aspects of the vacation more challenging. If possible, have the front-seat passenger be in charge of navigation so the driver can focus on the road and potential hazards rather than maps and landmarks.

What to Do After a Summer Road Trip Car Accident

Not all accidents can be avoided, even when you take all possible precautions. If you’ve been injured in a car accident while traveling in or around Atlanta, contact The CP Law Group for experienced guidance and compassionate support. To schedule a free consultation with an Atlanta car accident lawyer, contact us at 844-546-4878 (that’s 844-5-IM-HURT) or on social media @TheCPLawGroup.