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Now that the summer is headed our way, there are some new dangers on the roads. Look out for these hazards to help prevent Florida car accidents:

1) Recreational vehicles. At this time of year, many people take out ATVs, motorcycles, bicycles, and other types of similar vehicles for fun. When these vehicles share the road with you, you need to be extra cautious to avoid a collision. Also, while people are not supposed to use motorized scooters, golf carts, or ride-on mowers on roads, some do, so be alert for these hazards as well.

2) More pedestrians. Visitors and Florida residents alike enjoy the summer days by heading out for walks. Many people take advantage of lazy summer days to take strolls or try jogging. Keep alert, especially at intersections and in areas near walking trails. Give pedestrians plenty of room and be prepared for the unexpected. Together, we can help lower the rate of Florida pedestrian accidents.

3) Weather conditions. While most of us consider winter weather to be a hazard, summer has its own hazards. Hot, dry days can make it hard to concentrate on driving, for example, while sunny days can make visibility very difficult. As well, high heat can cause older cars to overheat and function poorly. Keep bottled water, sunscreen, and sunglasses in your car so that you can stay comfortable and focused on the road.

4) Road work. At this time of year, many municipalities start building projects and road repair. In these areas, slow down and follow signs or indicators. Stay alert for workers or work vehicles, which pose an additional obstacle for driver. Where possible, learn about road work on your route ahead of time and take an alternate route to avoid traffic and the risks of construction areas.

Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog

Summer can mean more distractions and therefore more Florida car accidents. There are many causes for distraction in the summer months:

1) A busier schedule. While the dog days of summer are meant to be a more relaxing time, for many people they are anything but. There are children’s camp activities and summer plans, a busier social life, wedding season, and many more distractions. A hectic schedule in the summer months can mean being emotionally distracted and unable to focus. It can also mean sleepless nights, late nights, and cell phones ringing while you are trying to drive. To avoid an accident, consider slowing down your schedule where possible and make a good effort to get a good night’s sleep.

2) More bustle on the streets. The streets are busier during the summer months, as visitors and local families take advantage of Florida’s green spaces, attractions, and beautiful weather. As well, many municipalities introduce special street events, live street entertainments, and billboards to attract visitors. These can all distract drivers and can cause other drivers on the road to rubberneck, as well.

3) More drivers. There tend to be more drivers on the roads during the summer, thanks to no school and thanks to the visitors who visit the state. Extra drivers and cars on the road can mean traffic, aggressive driving, and a higher risk of Florida car accidents due to the congestion on the roads.

4) Road work. Another contributor to congestion, road work is distracting because it can be hard to resist a peek at a new construction or a new project. However, it is important to stay focused on driving and to slow down in these construction areas.

5) Passengers. Whether you are ferrying the kids to summer activities or going on a family road trip, you are likely to have more passengers in your car more often during the summer months. Passengers can easily distract you with chatting and by pointing out sights on the road. Try to keep passengers quiet by having them check a map or do something else for you while you drive.

Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog

Fatigued driving is a major cause of Florida truck accidents and car accidents. Fatigue can be an especial problem in the summer because:

1) The summer sun can be bad for proper rest and sleep. Since the days are longer in the summer, you may naturally be getting less sleep. If your bedroom is filled with sunlight in the morning, you may be waking up much earlier than you need to – especially if you are a night owl. Consider investing in dark, heavy curtains to keep out the sun in the mornings in order to get a restful sleep.

2) Late nights. The summer is often filled with social events, parties, and holidays, which can mean lots of late nights. When planning your social calendar, plan to get home safely from each event if you have been drinking. Planning well ahead is one of the best ways to avoid Florida drunk driving accidents. As well, try to get rest during the day when you know you will be up late. If you feel too tired to drive, take your body’s cues seriously and take a nap or call a cab rather than getting behind the wheel.

3) It can be difficult to sleep in the heat. Summer nights can make restful sleep difficult. Hot, dry nights can be uncomfortable and in many places insects can also be an issue. To combat the issue, use a humidifier and a fan or air conditioner to create a pleasant sleeping environment. Add a good-quality screen to your window and a mosquito net to your bed to ensure that insects do not disturb your rest.

4) Heat and light during the day can make it hard to drive. Even if you are rested, hot and sunny days can give you a headache and make you feel exhausted. Heat exhaustion and sun stroke can make it impossible to drive and even simple dehydration can make it difficult to stay alert and focused. Make sure to keep hydrated and wear a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog

It has been a fun-filled summer so far for the MADD Eugene Affiliate Office. A few highlights include the MADD Team Eugene participating in a virtual walk for the MADD Pacific NW Region’s Walk Like MADD, Saturday, June 28th. We had a total of sixteen walkers join us in a short walk around the MADD Memorial Garden and Alton Baker Parker pathways. In total as a team we raised ,500. It was a perfect day and fun was had by all.

Wishing you a happy and safe summer!

MADD Oregon News