Share:

When you think of treacherous driving conditions, you most likely think of the winter, and navigating in snow and ice. However, driving in the heat of summer also presents its fair share of challenges and risks. As the weather starts to warm up, and more drivers hit the road, keeping a few summer driving safety tips from a towing company in mind will help prevent problems.

How to Drive Safely in the Summer 

1. Check Your Tires 

Maintaining proper tire pressure is vital to preventing blowouts, ensuring the vehicle handles properly, and preserving gas mileage. Check your tires at least once a week and before driving to ensure the pressure matches the recommended amount listed on the sticker inside the door. Pressure can increase one pound per square inch (PSI) per 10 degree increase in temperature, so test the tires when they are cold for an accurate reading. Underinflated tires will wear out faster, while overinflated tires can blow out due to the extreme heat and friction. 

2. Increase Following Distance 

Traffic increases during the summer due to more travelers on the road and road construction projects. While driving, increase your following distance to allow plenty of time to stop and prevent a crash. This is especially important when carrying a heavy load, which makes it even harder to slow down.

3. Perform More Frequent Equipment Maintenance 

The last thing you want is to need to call a towing company because your truck is overheating or the brakes aren't working. Summer driving means more heat, which can stress the mechanical functions in your truck and cause a breakdown. Check the coolant and oil systems at least once a week to ensure there aren't any leaks or blockages so that the respective liquids reach every part of the engine.

4. Protect Your Eyes

towing company

The extra sunlight and glare coming off the road and other vehicles can increase eye fatigue and make it harder to see hazards on the road. Invest in a quality pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes, especially early in the morning and evening. Many towing companies respond to crashes at around this time of the year because drivers are unable to see.

5. Monitor the Weather 

Summer weather can be unpredictable, especially in the Midwest. Before hitting the road, check the forecast for your route so that you can prepare for sudden changes, including severe storms that might cause flash flooding or spawn tornadoes. Be prepared to stop during bad weather if necessary to avoid accidents or problems that will require a towing company's help. 

If you have trouble while driving near Cincinnati, OH, this summer, call Buckeye Riverside Towing for fast, reliable assistance. This towing company specializes in 24/7 heavy-duty emergency services for commercial vehicles throughout the tri-State area. In addition to towing, they can help with vehicle lockouts, battery jump-starts, and tire changes. To request assistance, call (513) 244-7200 or visit their website to learn more about their services.

tracking