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Tips for Driving Safely This Summer
Content Legally Reviewed By 
Matt Conner
Matt ConnerSafe Summer Driving Tips from a Washington Attorney
Summer driving can be deceptive. While there may not be ice or flooding, there are other hazards hidden amongst the longer days and warmer temperatures. Driving during a summer heat wave almost seems peaceful, but according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), August has the highest number of accident fatalities in the United States – with July and September coming in a close second.
Why is Summer Driving so Dangerous?
There are a few reasons why summer is more dangerous than winter, including:
- More teenage drivers and new drivers on the road. With summer vacation in full swing, there are more teen drivers and inexperienced drivers on the road – which means danger for the rest of the drivers out there. Their unavoidable lack of experience leads to less-than-perfect judgment in emergency situations, and increases their likelihood of being involved in an accident.
- More drivers on the road taking vacations or traveling to destinations. Summer means less days at work and more days out – which means congested city streets and highways. Those vacationing in the Washington area who are unfamiliar with their surroundings are especially dangerous, because they will have more erratic and unpredictable driving behaviors.
- Heat and tires do not mix. Summer takes its toll on tires and, according to AAA, hot temperatures forces the air inside your tires to expand, which leads to blowouts – especially if your tires are well worn.
- Construction is in full swing. Summer is the ideal time for construction crews to adjust roadways, work on public works projects, and more. All of the construction leads to congestion, changed speed limits, and other hazards that increase the likelihood of an accident.
- More cyclists on the road. During the summer months, there are more cyclists on the road. While most cyclists know the rules of the road when sharing with motor vehicles, there are some who don’t.
Staying Safe
While you cannot control other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists, you can do your part to stay safe. Be on the lookout for more than just motor vehicles on the road, check your tires to ensure that they are ready for the road, and be prepared for unexpected stops. By just paying attention to the road ahead, you can reduce the likelihood that you will cause an accident.
Were You Injured in an Auto Accident? Contact our Washington Injury Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one was injured in an auto accident this summer, contact the car accident and injury lawyers at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner to discuss your case. Our auto accident attorneys will aggressively fight for your right to compensation. Call us now to get started at 800-925-1875 or fill out our online contact form with your questions.
About the Author
Matt Conner
Matt Conner has a proven track record of success. Following his graduation from Willamette University with a double major in mathematics and economics, Matt worked as an economist for the Office of Economic Analysis for the State of Oregon before moving onto working in mortgage banking and real estate. Although Matt would move on to law school shortly thereafter, his experience in the financial sector has provided him with valuable experience in how to achieve maximum compensation for his clients.
May 29, 2026
May 27, 2026
