Essential Summer Travel Safety Tips for Florida Roads
Top Tips for a Safe and Fun Summer Vacation
As summer kicks into high gear, so does the travel season. June marks Safe Summer Travel Month, making it the perfect time to brush up on essential road safety tips before starting your trip this summer. Whether you’re heading out for a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or a cross-country adventure, a few simple precautions can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Journey
Before you set out, map your route and check for any construction or traffic updates. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) advises planning ahead to help reduce stress and unexpected surprises on the road. Make sure your vehicle is road-ready by checking tire pressure, fluid levels, brakes, and windshield wipers. A well-maintained car can prevent unexpected breakdowns that disrupt your trip. Pack an emergency kit with water, snacks, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, jumper cables, a tire repair kit and a phone charger. If traveling to remote areas, consider carrying a portable GPS device. Also, identify rest areas, gas stations and food stops along your route so you can take necessary breaks without unnecessary detours.
Buckle Up and Drive Sober
Seat belts save lives. Messaging from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reminds everyone that buckling up is the simplest way to protect yourself and your loved ones. Ensure children are in the correct car seats or booster seats based on their age and weight, and double-check that seats are properly installed. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Even certain prescription medications can impair judgment and reaction time, so always check medication labels before driving. If celebrating with drinks, plan ahead for a designated driver or arrange for a rideshare service to get home safely.
Watch Your Speed and Stay Focused
With more vehicles on the road during summer, it’s crucial to obey speed limits and avoid aggressive driving. Speeding increases the risk of crashes. Stick to posted speed limits and adjust for weather or traffic conditions. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) educators emphasize the dangers of distracted driving. Put your phone away, keep your eyes on the road and always be mindful of your surroundings. Fatigue can also impair driving abilities, so take breaks every two hours or switch drivers if traveling long distances.
Prepare for Summer Weather
Summers in Polk County, Florida, and nearby regions usually bring high temperatures and rainstorms, which can result in unpredictable road conditions. . Slow down in wet conditions, turn on headlights, and increase your following distance to prevent hydroplaning. If visibility is reduced, safely pull over until conditions improve. Never leave children or pets in parked cars as temperatures rise rapidly, leading to life-threatening heatstroke. Keep extra water in your vehicle to stay hydrated and wear sunglasses to reduce glare from the sun.
Share the Road
Be extra cautious around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcycles, and large trucks. Give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing and always check for bikes before opening your car door. Motorcycles are less visible than cars, so look twice before changing lanes. Large trucks have substantial blind spots so you will want to avoid lingering in them and pass with caution. Stay alert in busy pedestrian areas, especially near parks or beaches where foot traffic increases during summer.
Enjoy Summer Safely
By following these safe summer travel tips, you can help make the roads safer for everyone. Let’s work together this June and through the rest of the year to reduce crashes and ensure that every summer memory is a happy one.
For more information, visit FDOT, FLHSMV, and NHTSA. Safe travels.