Content Summary for Summer Travel Safety Infographic
Summer is the most dangerous driving season. That's right. Not winter!
- Check tires to stay safe and also save money.
Well-maintained tires provide:
- Protection from avoidable crashes and breakdowns,
- Stable vehicle handling, and
- Maximized tire life.
Maintaining tire pressure at recommended levels increases fuel efficiency - important in the summer when gas prices rise.
- When packing your car for a trip, do not exceed the max weight capacity.
Check the owner's manual to find out the maximum weight your vehicle can safely carry. Ensure that you can clearly see out of all vehicle windows.
- Managing the heat and glare.
- Keep your sunglasses handy.
- Use a sun shield to deflect heat from the car's interior.
- DO NOT leave a child or a pet unattended in a vehicle.
- Prevent dehydration - always travel with plenty of water.
- Allergy management.
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: 1 in 5 Americans suffer from an allergy that impacts daily life. Many over-the-counter and prescription allergy medications contain drowsiness-inducing ingredients. If you are planning to drive, make sure your allergy medications will not affect your alertness or energy.
- Summer storms and showers require extreme caution on roads.
Rain mixes with oil and dirt on roads, causing them to become slippery in the first few minutes of rainfall. If you have poor visibility, pull completely off the road, such as in a rest area or an ultra-wide pull-off. Be sure to turn on emergency flasher lights when pulling off the road. Keep them on while off the road or driving below the posted speed limit. Remember, in many cases, the speed limit is "conditions permitting." Never drive through flooded roads. They may be washed away where you can't see.
- Summer travel and alcohol.
Do not drink and drive. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the rate of alcohol-related traffic fatalities increases significantly. Summer heat plus alcohol can equal trouble. The mixture can quickly lead to dehydration or heat stroke. If you know you'll be driving, stay away from alcohol. Stay Safe and Have Fun! Have Fun and Stay Safe! Sources:
http://www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/t/general-statistics/fatalityfacts/overview-of-fatality-facts/2012#When-they-died http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=9&sub=30 http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/summer-downpours-travel-danger-1/52484 
