Driving Tips for Your Summertime Adventures

Summer is a time for adventure, and if you are like most people who like to explore the outdoors during the warmer weather you may find yourself driving on unfamiliar terrain.

Texas has plenty of wild places to discover, and if you decide to hit the roads out of Dallas this summer it helps to have some basic tips to keep you and your car safe.

During the summer months there are always more cars out on the roads. Most schools are out so you have more families and friends heading out on vacations and interstate road trips. In addition, there are a lot more recreational drivers on the road due to the great weather.

Unfortunately, with an increase in drivers comes an increase in traffic accidents. Here are a few tips to help keep you safe when you and your family head out for fun in the sun this year.

1) Your tires.

Driving in more remote areas can be tough on your car, so you will want to check that your tires are ready for the challenge. Quality tires will go a long way toward making sure you enjoy a safer and more comfortable ride on the back roads. Also, keep in mind that traction can become a concern if you end up in muddy areas. This is especially true if you plan to go off-roading, so having tires that can take on difficult conditions will certainly add to the fun.

2) Supplies.

When exploring unfamiliar territory it is never good to be unprepared, so be sure you bring supplies that will help you out-sometimes literally-in the event that you get stuck.

A tow strap and a come-along are both good to have in your vehicle in case your car gets trapped in a ditch or a hole. Also, a small shovel can be used to clear away mud or debris from around the tire in case you get stuck.

Even if you only plan to be gone for a short period of time, you should always bring plenty of water and food if you're going to hit the back roads. Should something happen and you find yourself stranded it could be a while before anybody shows up to help, so having enough to eat and drink can greatly increase your comfort levels.
A GPS unit can also be helpful in the event you get lost or stuck, but remember that they are not infallible so make sure to have a map and a compass available should you need it.

3) Watch Out for Vehicles of All Sizes

Large vehicles, such as semis and buses, can create a significant gust of wind behind them. This can be enough to make your vehicle rock back and forth a bit. Be aware of this when they pass you and either slow down or get ahead of them to get free of this sometimes dangerous nuisance.Summer means motorcycle riders are out in droves and it’s very easy to lose them in your blind spot. Remember, your mirrors always say “no” when you check to change lanes. You have to turn your head to be sure.

4)  Watch the Road

Don’t forget to keep your eyes on the road. It’s easy to let your mind wander on an endless straight stretch, but it’s also one of the most dangerous things you can do. In addition to keeping an eye out for other drivers, summer traffic can cause hazardous potholes and other road imperfections that can turn deadly when moving at speeds 70 mph and above. If you feel yourself getting tired or “zoning” out, pull over and take a break. Loss of concentration is a driver’s worst enemy.If you’re involved in an accident on the Interstate or in a Dallas car accident, be sure to call a good lawyer. A vehicle accident lawyer might be able to help you file a lawsuit to get compensated.

5) Tell someone.

If you're going out for a back-country adventure, be sure someone back home knows where you are going and how long you plan to be away. This will help people known when and where to look for you in the event that you get stranded or lost.
As with any driving adventure, you run the risk of accidents. If a car accident ruins your summer fun, be sure to contact a vehicle accident lawyer to help you to determine whether or not you have the right to claim damages in court. Regardless of where you're at drivers need to be considerate of the other people on the road, and a car accident lawyer may be able to help you assert your right to the road if someone's negligence causes you harm.