The potential dangers of driving in summer are often underestimated or overlooked, but with varying weather conditions and potentially more traffic on the road as people set off on summer getaways, it is important that you are prepared for all the trials and tribulations of summer driving.
To keep you safe on the road this summer, Dexel Tyre & Auto Centre have compiled a list of helpful driving essentials to carry with you when travelling and keep you prepared for whatever lies ahead.
During hot temperatures, tyre rubber is much more susceptible to wear as the heat and friction from the surface of the road can aggravate it. It is therefore important that you check your tyre pressures and visually inspect them for any damage before heading on a summer road trip. Damaged or incorrectly inflated tyres are more likely to suffer punctures or blow-outs on a hot road.
As well as checking your tyres, you should think about carrying a spare tyre or tyre repair kit with you as a precaution.
Getting stuck in heavy traffic in hot weather means you run the risk of overheating your engine. To safeguard against this, you should check and top up your engine coolant before any long journeys, but as precaution always carry a spare bottle of water in your car.
If your car does overheat whilst you are driving, you should stop as soon as safely possible and allow the engine to cool down. When the bonnet and coolant container are cool enough to touch, top up with the water slowly. You should then drive to the nearest garage and have your engine looked at by a specialist and your coolant filled up with the correct fluid.
It is a good idea to always carry an in-car phone charger or even a spare mobile phone with you whilst driving. This will help you to contact family or your breakdown service if you run in to difficulty whilst driving.
You should ensure that you have a pair of sunglasses easily to hand whilst driving in summer. The sun’s glare can be distracting and could potentially dazzle you, impairing your vision whilst driving.
Even if it is warm when you set off on your journey, summer weather in the UK is notoriously unpredictable so you should carry something warm and waterproof with you in case of emergency.
Be prepared for summer driving by making sure that you carry the right equipment and checking your vehicle before you set off on a long journey. For further information on driving this summer or if you would like a specialist to take a look at the condition of your tyres before you undertake any long journeys, simply contact your local Dexel Tyre & Auto Centre.