School is out and the temperatures are rising, which, for most families, means summer travel plans are in motion.
While vacations are a relaxing and fun way to spend a summer, for owner-operators, this means more traffic and hazards to look out for on the road. According to Forbes, 40% of Americans plan to travel more in 2024.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/travel-rewards/survey-travel-plans-2024/
Here are some hazards that all owner-operators should be aware of:
Young and Inexperienced Drivers
With school out for the summer, there will likely be more young, inexperienced, distracted drivers on the road. We'd like to think that everyone who gets behind the wheel understands the importance of defensive driving, but, unfortunately, that isn't the case. As a commercial driver, our knowledge of safety far exceeds that of more junior drivers. We should never assume that younger and less experienced drivers understand the required stopping distance for a fully-ladened 38,000 lb. tractor-trailer nor that they will consistently make safe driving choices.
Out-of-Towners are Generally Unfamiliar with their Surroundings
With people coming and going throughout the summer months, it's easy to forget that not everyone around you knows where they're going. People might be looking at their phone, GPS, or a map to figure out where they are, so you need to make sure you're paying attention in case they aren't. Things to be on the watch for are:
- Frequent and last-minute lane changes
- Unexpended slowing during lane mergers
- Driving slower than the pace of traffic.
Summer Often Means More Substance Abuse
It goes without being said, but summer generally means more partying and dangerous behavior. Unfortunately, according to multiple legal institutions, the majority of DUI-related incidents happen between the months of May and September. Be on the look out for drivers who might be under the influence.
Things to watch out for are:
- Weaving or zig-zagging across lanes
- Sudden or excessive braking
- Tailgating; following too closely
- Ignoring traffic signals, other vehicles, or signs
- Speeding
For owner-operators, it is crucial to stay vigilant and on your toes when you're driving year-round, but especially during the warmer months. Even the most experienced and well-trained drivers can fall victim to people who are not paying attention.
To stay safe in the summer, make sure you're paying close attention to the road. Don't drive distractedly, keep your vehicle well-maintained, and don't assume those who are sharing the road with you are paying as close attention to their surroundings as you are.
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