Staying Safe on the Road This Summer

Come summer and you'll find the highways and roadsonly will there be a number of cars on the road, but
chock-a-block with vacationers and merrymakerscyclists and motorcyclists will come out of hibernation
driving to various destinations. More traffic on the roadtoo in this season. Also, be careful near schools and
means more accidents and these figures becomebe alert for pedestrians.
alarming. Studies show, there's an automobile accident* Summer brings with it a lot of construction work on
every 18 seconds and a death every 11 minutes on theroads and highways, especially in the northern states
road.that receive a good amount of snow or rain during the
Safety Rulesother seasons. So, anticipate this and maintain a safe
By adhering to a few safety rules, you can ensure notspeed within the construction zones, keeping the
only your own safety, but that of your family too. Let'ssafety of road workers in mind.
see what they are:* Since long drives and the heat can take their toll
* The first step before driving off is to pack your carwhile driving, it's best to stop at a safe rest area and
properly, especially if you're carrying sporting andtreat yourself to a drink or an ice cream. This will
camping equipment. Tie your loads securely and don'trejuvenate you and make you more alert when you
let them block your view of the road. Drive morecontinue on the road.
slowly, if you're carrying a large load.* Whatever you take as refreshment, don't drink
* Before driving out be sure to buckle up and makealcoholic beverages, since drinking and driving just don't
sure everyone else does too. Use booster and childmix. Also, don't overindulge in alcohol if you're to drive
car seats for babies and young children. You'd beback from a get together with family and friends or a
surprised to know that vehicle collision is the leadingpicnic or barbeque. If you do indulge, let someone
cause of death among children from ages 1 to 9.sober take the wheel.
* Be safe by adhering to safe driving practices. ThisIf you don't want to end up as part of road accident
includes staying calm at the wheel, keeping a safestatistics, it's necessary to adhere to these basic
speed and being courteous to other drivers. Speeding,safety tips. With these, you'll not only enjoy your
tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic and not yieldingvacation or outing, but will remain safe too, and that's
the right-of-way increases your risk of accidents.the most important thing.
* Always remain on the lookout for traffic, since not