Top 6 Causes of Summer Accidents
By Ross Cellino
While summer brings longer days and warmer weather, it can also bring a higher risk of car accidents. More drivers are on the road, construction projects are more common, and many families are traveling for vacations, events, and weekend plans.
Understanding the most common causes of summer car accidents can help you recognize risks and take steps to protect yourself and those around you.
If you were injured in a summer driving accident, the attorneys at Cellino Law are here to help. You can review your options with a member of our legal team by scheduling a free consultation online or by phone at 888-888-8888.
Key Takeaways on Causes of Summer Accidents
- Summer can bring a higher risk of car accidents due to increased travel, road work, and more drivers on the road.
- Distracted driving, such as texting or adjusting GPS, can be especially dangerous on unfamiliar roads or in heavy traffic.
- Construction zones require extra caution because lane closures, reduced speeds, and workers near traffic can increase crash risks.
- Speeding, reckless driving, and impaired driving can make it harder for drivers to react safely.
- Drivers should watch carefully for pedestrians and bicyclists, especially near crosswalks, parks, neighborhoods, and parking lots.
1. Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving is a serious problem year-round, but it can become more common in the summer. Even a distraction that is a few seconds long, such as changing the music, can lead to an accident.
Common distractions include:
- Texting or checking notifications
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Adjusting GPS or music
- Reaching for items in the vehicle
During summer travel, unfamiliar roads and heavy traffic can make these distractions even more dangerous. Drivers should set directions before driving, put their phone away, and pull over safely when they need to use it.
2. Construction Zone Accidents
Road work is common during the summer months due to nicer weather. It’s important to be aware of these construction zones, as they may have multiple distractions, including:
- Lane closures
- Reduced speed limits
- Uneven pavement
- Workers near traffic
- Sudden changes in traffic patterns
Construction zone accidents can happen when drivers fail to slow down, follow too closely, ignore signs, or make unsafe lane changes. To help prevent crashes, pay close attention to posted signs, reduce your speed, avoid sudden lane changes, and leave extra room between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This is especially important because construction workers, pedestrians, and other drivers may have limited space to move safely.
3. Speeding Accidents
Speeding is another major cause of summer car accidents. With clear weather and dry roads, some drivers may feel more comfortable driving too fast. Others may speed because they are rushing to get to vacation plans, events, or family gatherings.
Remaining cautious on the road is important, as speeding can:
- Make it difficult to stop in time
- Reduce a driver’s reaction time
- Increase the force of a crash
A driver who is speeding may not have enough time to react to sudden traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, or road work. Even when roads look clear, speed limits are there for a reason. Driving at a safe speed gives you more control and more time to respond.
4. Reckless Driving
A reckless driver puts everyone nearby at risk. During the summer, busy highways, crowded local roads, and vacation traffic can increase the chances of aggressive driving. Some drivers may become impatient in traffic or take risks to get around slower vehicles. Reckless driving can include:
- Tailgating
- Weaving through traffic
- Running red lights
- Ignoring stop signs
- Racing
- Cutting off other drivers
- Making unsafe turns
If you see a reckless driver, give them space. Avoid engaging with them, and do not try to block or challenge their behavior. Move over safely when possible, and call 911 if their behavior creates an immediate danger.
5. Impaired Driving
Summer holidays, cookouts, concerts, and late-night events can lead to more impaired drivers on the road. Driving impaired can affect a driver’s judgment, reaction time, coordination, vision, and ability to stay in their lane.
Impaired driving accidents are often preventable. Anyone who plans to drink should arrange for a safe way home before the event begins. Some safe options may include:
- A designated driver
- A rideshare service
- A taxi
- Public transportation
- Staying overnight when possible
Impairment is not limited to alcohol. Certain prescription medications, recreational drugs, and extreme fatigue can also make driving unsafe.
6. Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents
More people walk and bike during the summer. Children may be out of school, families may spend more time outdoors, and neighborhoods may have more foot traffic than usual.
Pedestrian and bicycle accidents can happen when drivers:
- Fail to yield
- Speed through residential areas
- Open car doors without looking
- Turn without checking for people crossing the street
- Become distracted near crosswalks, parks, and parking lots
Drivers should be careful in areas where people are likely to walk or bike. Pedestrians and bicyclists should stay alert, use crosswalks or bike lanes when available, follow traffic signals, and make themselves visible.
What to Do After a Summer Car Accident
If you are injured in a summer car accident, your health and safety should come first. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or the situation is dangerous. Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
When possible, document the scene. This includes taking photos of anything related to the accident, such as vehicle damages, injuries, or road conditions. In addition, you should gather contact information from witnesses, and keep medical records, repair estimates, bills, and other important documents.
You should also consider speaking with a personal injury attorney. An attorney can explain your options, deal with the insurance company, and help protect your rights after an accident.
Injured in a Summer Car Accident? Call Cellino.
Summer car accidents can be caused by many factors, including distracted driving, construction zones, speeding, reckless driving, impaired driving, or an increase in pedestrians and bicycles. However, no matter how the accident happened, you deserve clear answers and support.
At Cellino Law, we offer free case evaluations, and there is no fee unless we win your case. If you were injured in a summer car accident, contact us today or call 888-888-8888 to learn how we can help.
Content checked by the personal injury attorney Ross Cellino
Ross Cellino
As a family man and a trial attorney, I pride myself on winning cases and serving the community. With over 35 years of experience, I understand the function of a jury, how juries arrive at conclusions, and the role that the jury plays in administering justice. I know how to win cases. You can find us in Manhattan, Buffalo, Melville, Rochester, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens and other locations throughout New York.
