School is almost finished and it is almost time for those infamous summer road trips with the family.  Even if you will be staying in Indianapolis this summer, it is a good idea to prepare yourself and your automobile for summer driving conditions. We pay a lot of attention to preparing vehicles for winter, but summer driving conditions can be just as dangerous. Below are several summertime auto safety tips from our legal team. We hope everyone has a safe and happy summer.

Auto Safety Tip 1: Check Your Battery

The heat during the summer can have more of a negative impact on your vehicle’s battery than the cold. Before the hot summer months arrive, check to make sure that your battery is securely mounted and clean any corrosion on the terminals. Heat can also cause battery fluids to evaporate faster, so keep an eye out for additional corrosion. If the battery is more than three years old, you may want to have it checked by a technician. Also, keep those jumper cables in the car because you never know when you may need them.

Auto Safety Tip 2: Check Your Engine Fluid

Overheated engines are frustrating, but they can also be extremely dangerous. Talk to your mechanic about flushing the system before summer arrives and keep a close eye on the coolant in your vehicle. Also, don’t forget to check hoses and belts since heat can cause cracks and soft spots.

Auto Safety Tip 3: Check Your Tires

It is important to keep your tires properly inflated during the summer. Driving on hot surfaces with under-inflated tires can increase the risk of a blowout. Always follow the recommendations in your vehicle’s owner’s manual regarding the proper inflation pressure.

Auto Safety Tip 4: Don’t Leave Anyone in the Car During the Summer

The focus is mainly on leaving children in vehicles, but it is never safe for anyone, including adults, to sit in a hot car for long periods during the summer. The temperatures in a car can rise quickly, even when the windows are down. Instead, sit outside of your vehicle whenever possible in a shaded area. Because it cannot be said enough, don’t leave children, pets, or elderly individuals in a vehicle. Always lock your vehicle and place keys where children cannot reach them to prevent a tragic accident.

Auto Safety Tip 5: Prepare an Emergency Kit

If you do not have an emergency kit in your vehicle, now is the time to put one together. In addition to the basic emergency items, you may want to include extra bottles of water and a battery-operated fan.

Additional Reading and Safety Tips

The NHTSA, AAA Exchange, and IN.gov have additional safety tips and suggestions on their websites.

Contact The Legal Team Of Poynter & Bucheri If You Are Injured In Car Accident

The weather is not the only thing that can make driving during the summer dangerous. Some of the other things that you should watch for on Indianapolis roads this summer include:

• More teen drivers on the road
• Drivers who are on vacation and may be lost
• Additional vehicles on the road mean additional congestions, aggressive drivers, and road rage
• Construction zones may increase as crews take advantage of longer days
• More motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians on the road
• Greater number of children playing outside

If you sustain injuries in a car accident, our legal team is ready to help. Call 1-800-265-9881 or (317) 780-8000 to request your free consultation with an Indianapolis traffic accident lawyer.