- 16
- Jun
As summer begins the days become hotter and lengthier which present adventure on the road. All though it can be exciting to take to the road there are still issues of weather and other hazards which could hinder the unsuspecting motorist.
Temperatures during the summer months will rise, yielding in some places a lack of rain. Debris that is not taken away by rainfall can increase on the surface of the roads. Other surface issues such as oil, dust, and rubber can also be plentiful in areas where rain has not occurred often. A lack of rain can make the road more slippery.
Slick roads can also increase after a small rain, as the water stays on the road rather than running off. Debris, dirt or oil mixed with water can create conditions that are less than safe. The driver may not even suspect the problems.
Driving once it has rained, and then the roads warm again will affect how you can brake. In fact the distance will increase for the amount of brake time you need to stop or to go around a curve. The tyre grip is going to be less controlled.
Asphalt, after a very hot dry period is worse than just after a short rain. A polished sheen can be seen on the ground as the heat mixes with the tar. The more cars that travel over an area the hotter the road can become.
The warm and enjoyable weather will bring out more than a keen driver. It will also bring out the holiday motorists with their caravans. The open road becomes a mecca for those who enjoy a long drive in the country with their convertible or the travelling family wanting to camp out. Holiday caravan drivers can put a small ruffle in the drive, but you should not irritate them. They have every right to be on the road, thus remaining calm is essential even if you are wishing to pass.
Be aware that many of these drivers will have been travelling for long distances, on roads they are unfamiliar with, possibly distracted by their children or satellite navigation. Be prepared for them to make unexpected manoeuvres without signalling, and factor this into your decision when deciding whether it is appropriate to overtake them, and remember you easily come across a slow moving vehicle mid way through a blind bend.
Modern vehicles come with daylights which turn on even when it is sunny out. Running lights during the day in summer has been researched, which is one reason daylights are now on modern cars. It was determined that having lights in the daytime reduces collisions and accidents by 12 percent. Factors like sun glasses, spotty shaded areas, and the summer sun makes leaving your lights on safer for other drivers to see you and you to see them.
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