Top 10 Tips for Safe Summer Driving – Blog July 2016

Summer time can be one of the most enjoyable times of the year to be out on the road, whether you are taking a family road trip, heading to the cottage or just out enjoying the day.Most of us are aware of the hazards and safety issues of winter driving but did you know summer can actually be more dangerous than winter driving? The Canadian Safety Council has reported that there are more fatalities during the summer months than at any other time of year.Here are 10 Tips for staying safe while driving this summer:

  • Share the road. During the summer months there are often more people on the road because of cyclists, motorcyclists, pedestrians, and an increase in teen drivers. Being a respectful and courteous driver on the look out for others will help keep you and others safe as well make the drive enjoyable.

  • Buckle up! Keeping everyone safe begins with ensuring everyone in your vehicle is buckled up properly, it can save lives.

  • Stay Alert. Remember to take a break if you are feeling tired and fatigued, it’s better to get there in one piece than to push yourself and risk the safety of yourself and others. Giving yourself and passengers a break also gives your vehicle a break and the chance to cool down.

  • Distracted Driving. There are many things to catch our attention. The most common distraction is texting, please don’t text and drive. Instead, enjoy the beauty of the open road and connecting with friends and family who are traveling with you.

  • Never drink and drive. With summer patios open, visiting friends and being away on holidays can all be reasons why we want to enjoy a drink or two. If you plan to drink, please ensure you have a designated driver or another way home.

  • Rules of the Road. Respect the posted speed limits, the rights of other drivers and adjust your driving depending on road conditions, including driving safely through construction zones.

  • Prepare your vehicle. Before leaving on holidays have your vehicle serviced to ensure everything is working properly. Repair or replace worn parts, check fluid levels and tire pressure. Make sure all lights work, including signal lights. Check out our Preventative Maintenance Specials.

  • Towing a Trailer or Carrying a Heavy Load. Whether you are towing a boat, camper or hauling a large load, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped. Check that your rear view mirrors give a clear view of the road behind. And remember you need to adjust your driving to have more space to stop or pass.

  • Wild life. Be aware of animal crossings such as deer, fox, geese, ducks … if you do see an animal by the side of the road or about to cross avoid it safely. Be aware of not only the animal but drivers behind you or beside you. Slow down and sound your horn in a series of short bursts to frighten the animal away.

  • Keep Kids and Pets Safe. Never leave a child or pet left unattended in a parked vehicle, not for a minute. Did you know a child’s body temperature can heat up 3 to 5 times faster than adults? And pets can also suffer if left in a vehicle during summer months. It takes less than 10 minutes for a vehicle’s inside temperature to reach 37° Celsius when it is only 26° Celsius outside.Always look in both the front and back of the vehicle before locking the door and walking away to ensure know one is left behind. If you see a child or pet unattended in a hot vehicle call 911.

Our team at Frank Motors wishes you and your family a wonderful summer season.

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