How To Have Safer Journeys And Avoid Fines This Summer

Summer 2023 is coming in hot, and as temperatures rise and calendars become filled with summer outings, drivers face different road challenges that could pose new risks for their vehicles.

With TikTok views for #summerdrives soaring to 7 million, it’s clear that everybody loves a summer road trip, however, there are many things to think about when preparing for a scorching journey.

To make things easier for drivers, David James, Sales Director at fuel card provider, Right Fuel Card, has shared a six step summer driving checklist for safer summer travels:

Check your tyres

High temperatures can cause the air in your tyres to expand, leading to a potential blowout whilst on the road. As more than 20% of all breakdowns in the UK occur due to tyre issues4, it’s important that you check your tyres before setting off on long journeys in the hot weather.

The minimum legal tread level is 1.6mm, which can be checked at a petrol station. Failure to meet this requirement can incur a hefty £2,500 fine and 3 points for EVERY tyre.

Be sure to check the recommended tyre pressure measurement for your vehicle, this can be found either in the handbook or displayed on the dashboard in newer vehicles, as the lower the level, the less grip your tyres will have on the road.

Cool it with coolant

Coolant does exactly what it says on the bottle and acts as a stabiliser to the engine temperature. This needs to be maintained regularly, especially in summer, as hotter conditions can pose additional threats to the overall running of your vehicle. Ensure you’re using coolant as and when needed to keep the temperature stable and safe.

Inspect the electricals

The electrical components in your vehicle need to be checked frequently to keep you and other road users safe.

This includes confirming that all of your lights are working and examining your battery, ensuring that the terminals are clean and intact, as higher temperatures could increase the risk of electrical damage if the components overheat.

Keep your windows clean

With the warm weather comes more grime and bugs, which can negatively affect your view of the road.

Make sure you refill your screenwash ahead of your journey so you’re able to wash away any unwanted debris from your windscreen that might usually get washed away with the rain.

Pack some shades

Sun glare distractions can be dangerous for drivers as it increases the risk of impaired visibility of the road ahead. Traffic signals, road signs and even other vehicles can be missed, which leads to risks of collisions if you’re unable to react promptly.

Some drivers may squint or shield their eyes as protection, but this can divert your attention away from the road, which is dangerous for both you and other road users. Instead, keep a pair of sunglasses in the car so you’re able to easily pull them out whenever the sun is bright.

Keep hayfever at bay

Hayfever can be a significant hazard for drivers in summer, as many of the symptoms can affect your focus and prevent quick reactions.

Sneezing whilst driving at 70mph, can result in blind driving for 70 yards, which might cause a tragic accident. This could also cost you a £2,500 fine and 3 or more penalty points for driving without due care and attention.

If you suffer from hayfever, take a non-drowsy medication before your travels. Closing all windows and sticking to the air con to cool the car down can also help to minimise symptoms. If you feel like you’re about to sneeze, you should gently slow down and drop back from any vehicles in front.

By checking each of these elements throughout the summer period, you’ll be less likely to experience a heat-related hazard, which in turn limits unnecessary costs, allowing you to enjoy your summer road trips to the fullest.

There are a few more handy items to ensure you keep in your car during hot weather, and all year round, including a first aid kit, jump cables, snacks and drinking water in case you end up stuck in a traffic jam.

To avoid breakdowns in summer, the company recommends that your vehicle is regularly serviced to ensure that it remains in good working condition so it can operate to the best of its ability through the scorching temperatures.

For more information on fuel cards and to find out more about driving safely this summer, please visit: https://www.rightfuelcard.co.uk/news/top-tips-driving-safely-summer/