As the school year winds down and the weather heats up, families across the country hit the highways in search of summer fun. Road trips, beach outings, and long weekends away are part of the seasonal magic — but with more drivers on the road, summer also becomes one of the most dangerous times to travel.
The Seasonal Surge in Accidents
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the summer months — particularly June through August — consistently report higher rates of traffic accidents and fatalities than any other time of year.
Here’s why:
- Increased Traffic Volume: More families on vacation means crowded highways and unfamiliar drivers navigating unfamiliar roads.
- Teen Drivers on Break: With school out, there's a surge of inexperienced drivers behind the wheel.
- More Alcohol-Related Incidents: Summer holidays like the 4th of July and Memorial Day are notorious for alcohol-related crashes.
- Heat and Vehicle Failures: Extreme heat can lead to tire blowouts and overheating, especially in older or poorly maintained vehicles.
- Distractions: Road trips often mean more distractions — GPS use, snacks, conversations, or even pets in the car.
Real Risks, Real Consequences
Even a momentary lapse in attention or judgment can lead to devastating consequences. Rear-end collisions, T-bone accidents at intersections, and multi-vehicle pileups are common in summer traffic scenarios.
At Scott Law Firm, we often see a spike in serious personal injury cases during this time — from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries, or worse. Many of these could have been prevented with greater caution on the road.
How to Stay Safe This Summer
- Plan Ahead: Know your route, check traffic conditions, and avoid peak travel hours.
- Maintain Your Vehicle: Check tires, brakes, and fluids before hitting the road.
- Limit Distractions: Put phones away, designate a navigator, and keep your focus on driving.
- Never Drive Under the Influence: Always have a sober driver, especially during holiday weekends.
- Watch for Pedestrians & Cyclists: Summer means more people walking and biking — stay alert.
If You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in a car accident this summer, don’t try to navigate it alone. Insurance companies may move quickly to settle — but your recovery and rights come first.
Contact Scott Law Firm for a free consultation. We fight for those injured due to another driver's negligence, and we don’t get paid unless you win.
Summer should be a time for memories — not medical bills and stress. Stay safe, stay alert, and enjoy the season.
