It seems counterintuitive that the season with the highest number of car accidents is summer. You would almost think that winter would be the time for the most frequent car accidents due to unpredictable and more unfavorable weather conditions, as well as decreased daylight hours. In addition, the state of Texas is known for having a high car accident rate, and the state’s fatal car accidents are the most in the country. There are more drivers on the road in general, possibly because Texas is the largest state.
Variety Of Reasons Leading To Increased Car Accidents in the Summer:
- High Temperatures: Summer in Texas can consist of days with sweltering heat conditions, which can lead to tire blowouts, engine overheating, and deterioration of the road surfaces.
- Increased Traffic: Many people take vacations or road trips during the summer, leading to a higher number of vehicles on the road. This in turn leads to the increased likelihood of accidents.
- Driver Fatigue: Longer daylight hours and vacation road trips with family or friends can contribute to driver fatigue, leading to reduced focus and reaction times.
- Distracted Driving: The use of cell phones and other electronic devices while driving is a major cause of accidents. When it is the summertime, drivers may be more tempted to use their phones to take pictures of the scenery around them, or to use their phone to help them navigate unfamiliar places while on trips.
- Construction Zones: Summer is a peak time for road construction and maintenance. Construction zones can lead to lane changes, reduced speed limits, and increased congestion, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Wildlife on Roads: In rural areas of Texas, there is a higher chance of finding wildlife on the roads during the summer, especially during dusk and dawn, leading to cars swerving to avoid the animals and potentially serious car accidents.
- Driving While Impaired: Summer festivities, parties, and events can lead to an increase in drinking alcohol, which may result in impaired driving and an increased risk of accidents.
- Tire Blowouts: High temperatures can cause the air inside tires to expand, leading to tire blowouts, particularly if tires are old or improperly maintained.
- Rain and Flooding: Summer thunderstorms can result in heavy rainfall and flash flooding in some parts of Texas. As a result, there is an increase in hazardous road conditions and reduced visibility.
- Inexperienced Drivers: Summer means younger drivers are on vacation from school. Since the younger drivers are less experienced on the roads, there is an increased potential that they will find themselves in car accidents.
To prevent accidents, it’s essential for drivers to stay attentive, follow speed limits, avoid distractions, and maintain their vehicles properly. Additionally, keeping an eye on weather forecasts and road conditions can help drivers plan their trips safely during the summer months. If you find yourself in an accident during the summer, or at other times of the year, and have suffered injuries and loss of time at work, contact Ceja Law firm, PLLC for a free consultation to determine what your rights are as a result of this accident.
