When most people think of dangerous driving conditions, they think of pouring rain or patchy ice. But there are certain inherent risks to driving in every season – even in summer. While you’re enjoying the longer daylight, family picnics, and splashing in the pool this season, please be aware of the safety risks while driving that come with the summer weather.

Summer Driving Risks

While school is out, children are home enjoying the warm weather. Young children are often unaware of their surroundings and may dart into the street without looking for oncoming traffic. Whether little ones are playing ball in the front yard or riding bikes on the sidewalk, they can present a risk for drivers.

In the summer, more inexperienced teen drivers are on the road. Teens may make hasty or uncertain decisions while operating their vehicles, creating more risk for other drivers.

During the warm summer months, vacationing drivers abound in the Lone Star State. These drivers tend to be unfamiliar with the roads, which can lead to erratic, unpredictable driving or unsafe speeds on their part. On highways and city streets, you as a driver may be put in unsafe situations at a moment’s notice.

Cyclists and bikers also enjoy the warm weather and take advantage of the summer months to get out onto the streets. While by law these drivers have every right to be there, they present special safety challenges to automobile drivers. Be alert for motorcycles and bicycles while turning, parallel parking, and always look out for oncoming vehicles that may need to come left of center to safely negotiate around a cyclist.

Summer is also the season for bugs and pollen, which can contribute to decreased visibility and more risk for you as a driver. So be sure to keep your vehicle’s fluids filled, and clean your windshield as often as necessary so your view is unobstructed at all times.

Is Your Automobile Policy Current?

If you have college-aged children who are away during the fall and winter, they will likely be at home for several weeks during the summer and may want to borrow your vehicle. If you advised your insurance agent that your child has gone to college, your son or daughter may have been excluded from your policy to lower your premium. It is important to double check your policy to make sure your child is covered before you hand over your keys and loan your vehicle.

With summer here and all its changes, are you sure your auto insurance policy is up-to-date? A friendly insurance advisor can help you review your current policy and decide if you have the right coverage. By having a quick review with an advisor, you may be able to save hundreds of dollars, especially since multiple discounts are available, including an exclusive discount for TMA members. Call 877-755-9576 or Click Here to speak with a qualified insurance advisor today.

For over 60 years, TMA Insurance Trust advisors have been serving Texas physicians, their families and staff. TMA Insurance Trust prides itself on offering unbiased information and strategies to members, along with exclusive group rates on a range of the highest-rated plans in the industry.