During the summer, people spend more time outdoors and on the road. Unfortunately, as the weather heats up, the risk of car accidents increases. This is a major concern during the summer of 2021, which has seen record-high temperatures throughout the United States. Everyone can be affected by heat and humidity, and drivers should act safely and take all necessary measures to prevent collisions. If you have been injured in a summer car accident, secure representation from an attorney who can help you determine how you can receive the financial compensation you deserve.
Causes of Summer Car Accidents
While motor vehicle collisions are a potential risk year-round, there are several ways that summer weather can increase the chances of an accident. Other than obvious risks associated with increased road construction and higher bicycle, motorcycle, and pedestrian traffic, there are other lesser-known risks as well, and those include:
- Health risks – Heat and humidity can cause a variety of serious health concerns, especially for those who are more physically vulnerable, such as elderly drivers or people who have a heart condition. If a person suffers from heatstroke or heat exhaustion, they may experience dizziness, confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. If this occurs while a person is driving, they will be likely to lose control of their vehicle, resulting in dangerous collisions. Even if a person does not experience a severe heat-related illness, high temperatures and humidity can cause a person to become dehydrated, which can result in headaches, fatigue, or dizziness, affecting their ability to operate a vehicle safely.
- Vehicle breakdowns – High temperatures can affect multiple parts of a vehicle, and the failure of one or more parts can affect a driver’s ability to operate a car or truck safely. Heat can cause the air in a vehicle’s tires to expand, leading to blowouts. If a vehicle is not maintained properly, other issues may occur, such as engine failure due to overheating. These issues could potentially cause a person to lose control of their vehicle, especially if they are driving at high speeds.
- Decreased visibility – The bright summer sun can cause a variety of issues that may affect a person’s ability to see what is happening on the road around them. Sunlight can cause a glare when reflecting off other vehicles, building windows, or other reflective surfaces, and this may temporarily blind a driver. Humidity can also lead to a haze that distorts what a driver can see, affecting their ability to respond to conditions on the road.
Contact Our Green Bay Summer Car Accident Attorneys
Following a car accident that took place during the summer months, Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. can help you determine the role that hot weather may have played in your injuries. We will take the necessary steps to gather evidence showing that another driver was liable for an accident due to their failure to follow the proper safety measures. We will work to ensure that you will be fully compensated for your financial losses and the ways your injuries will affect you in the future. Contact an Appleton car accident lawyer by calling 920-739-7366 to set up your free consultation today.
Sources:
https://www.nhtsa.gov/summer-driving-tips
https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/accidents-hazardous-conditions/summer-car-maintenance.htm
https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/understanding-heat-related-illness-basics