As the summer vacation season approaches, the Consumer Justice Attorneys of Leopold~Kuvin suggests seven summer tips for safer driving.
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Tire Pressure
Driving an underinflated tires, particularly in hot weather, causes interior tire damage and increases the chance of a tread separation or blowout. Check tire pressure every three weeks (have it checked at a gas station/tire service center); the manufacturer's recommended inflation levels can be found on the lower-inside driver's door frame. Pay special attention to "Run Flat" tires as leaks are not easily detected. Lastly, proper tire pressure will improve fuel economy. -
Tread Wear
Summer thunderstorms can flood roads suddenly, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. Check the tire tread to improve vehicle control in wet and dry conditions. Tread depth can be checked easily with a penny; insert the penny into the tread groove with Lincoln's face showing and upside down; if you can see all of the Lincoln's head, the tire needs to be replaced. -
Windshield wipers/Rain X
Change windshield wipers and coat the windows with Rain X improve visibility in torrential downpours. -
Child Restraints
Be sure that your child fits properly in a restraint. At http://www.boosterseat.gov/, parents can match a child to the correct restraint by entering in height and weight information. Lastly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has a list of all "child restraint fitting stations" located in each state. -
Back-Over Prevention
With children on summer vacation, it is imperative to take every measure to prevent backing over a child. Cars, but especially SUVs, have "blind zones" that make it difficult to see small children behind the vehicle. Survey the area around your vehicle to be sure that no small children are nearby. Consider installing an aftermarket backup safety camera to enhance rearward visibility. -
Engine Maintenance
Check your vehicle hoses, belts, and fluids to make sure your vehicle runs reliably in the summer heat. -
15-Passenger Vans
Many hotel shuttles, churches, and summer camps use 15-Passenger vans because they can hold many occupants; however, operators are not required by law to be certified bus drivers. These vehicles have a significant propensity to rollover and poor crash protection. To increase stability, passengers ought to sit in the forward-most seats because the more weight that is toward the rear of the vehicle, the more likely the van is to roll over. It is wise to remove the most rearward bench seat to prevent occupants from adding weight to the rear of the van. Whenever possible, avoid riding in these vehicles.
