Driving through a summer heat wave may be preferable to owner-operators when compared to driving through a winter-whiteout but, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), summer driving is the most dangerous and the most deadly. During the summer months, there are more drivers on the road meaning more factors that make summer time driving more dangerous. The NHTSA is urging drivers to be aware of the dangers and take proper precautions on the roads this summer.
More Drivers:
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), there are more teen drivers and drivers in general on the road during the summer. Record low fuel prices this year mean an increase in summer travel plans and traffic. Travel grid-lock can be unpleasant, but the AAA reminds motorists to plan ahead and be patient on the roads this summer.
Tire blowouts:
Always remember to inspect your tires before a long trip, but especially in the summer heat. Hot weather causes the air inside tires to expand which can lead to a blowout. The AAA suggests checking tires regularly and having a tire inspection done monthly throughout the summer to avoid blowouts on the road.
Construction:
Be cautious when driving in construction zones. Summer time is the most popular time for construction on the road and, according to the Federal Highway Administration (FHA), fatal work zone crashes occur most often in the summer. The FHA recommends drivers be extra alert in construction zones, never tailgate and obey the posted work zone speed limit.
Sun and excess heat:
Even on the road, staying cool and avoiding heat-related illness is crucial during the summer months. The National Weather Service recommends drivers be well hydrated before and during a long trip by drinking plenty of water and wear light-weight, light-colored clothing which helps the body maintain temperatures.
Join us on the Safety Thursday Conference Call Thursday June 16, 2016 at 12 p.m. EST call 877-717-5921.
Landstar System Inc. published this content on 16 June 2016 and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed by Public, unedited and unaltered, on 16 June 2016 00:14:07 UTC.
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Landstar System, Inc. is a technology-enabled, asset-light provider of integrated transportation management solutions delivering specialized transportation services to a range of customers utilizing a network of agents, third-party capacity providers and employees. The Company operates through two segments. Transportation logistics segment provides a range of integrated transportation management solutions. Transportation services offered by the Company include truckload, less-than-truckload and other truck transportation, rail intermodal, air cargo, ocean cargo, expedited ground and air delivery of time-critical freight, heavy-haul/specialized, United States-Canada and United States-Mexico cross-border, intra-Mexico, intra-Canada, project cargo and customs brokerage. Insurance segment consists of Signature Insurance Company and Risk Management Claim Services, Inc. The insurance segment provides risk and claims management services to certain of Landstars Operating Subsidiaries.
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