To a lot of people, the summer is the most joyous time of the year because of vacations, holidays, and outdoor activities. However, summer activities means that more travelers will be on the roadways, which also raises the chance of getting into a car accident.
The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer occurs between Memorial Day and Labor Day. During this time, there is an increase in fatal car accidents among teenage drivers. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), teenage driver fatalities increase by 26 percent in this time frame.
In Pennsylvania, car accidents happen frequently in the winter months, as weather and road conditions are the main cause of crashes. Summer months also show an alarming increase in car accidents, even without the snow and ice. The following list contains the common causes of car crashes in the summer.
No School
School being out during the summer usually means more children and teenagers outside. Also, with Coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions lessening, people who have been in their homes couped up are wanting to go out and travel. This includes all the children who have been indoors for remote schooling as well. All this contributes to more road congestion.
Teenage Drivers
Summer vacation means that teenagers will be driving frequently as well. Since teenagers lack driving experience, the increased number of teenage driver fatalities in the summer is referred to as the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer.
Teenage drivers are normally in cars with other teenagers, and smart phones and social media frequently distracts young drivers. Distracted driving is a major concern across the United States and is one of the main causes of teen-related car accidents.
Vacations and Tourists
The summer months may see an enormous number of travelers because of COVID-19 restrictions lifting. Lockdowns last year most likely prevented vacationers filling the highways. This year will likely be different, and traffic volume may be too overwhelming for some drivers, causing accidents.
Drinking and Driving
The warm summer weather likely means more outdoor parties, barbecues, and holiday gatherings. Car accidents increase on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day because it is customary for people to celebrate with alcohol.
It is important to remind every driver that drinking and driving is incredibly dangerous. Even a few drinks can cause one to lose enough focus to cause an accident. Alcohol affects each person differently.
Weather and Heat
Hot temperatures can cause a vehicle to malfunction, like underinflated tires blowing out due to extreme heat. The heat can cause other issues, particularly to the human body. The warm air and temperatures can cause unrested drivers to feel fatigued, which leads to drowsiness behind the wheel.
The summer is often an enjoyable time for many families and travelers. However, a summer vacation can quickly be ruined by a car accident. If one is involved in an accident, they should speak to a lawyer for legal advice.
Delaware County Personal Injury Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Protect Injured Drivers During the Dangerous Summer Months
All motorists should be extra careful while traveling during the summer months. If another driver caused your car accident injuries, then speak to a Delaware County personal injury lawyer at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. immediately. Call us at 610-565-3701 or contact us online for a free consultation. We are located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, and we proudly serve clients throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.