Summer brings sunshine, vacations, and an influx of travellers on the roads, making it a prime time for both adventure and accidents. Whether you’re heading to the lake, or simply commuting to work, summer presents unique challenges that drivers must be prepared to handle. Understanding the risks—from road construction to recreational activities—can help keep yourself and others safe.
Navigating Construction Zones
Warm weather is ideal for road repairs, which means summer is synonymous with construction zones. These areas can be confusing and dangerous due to narrowed lanes, sudden stops, reduced speed limits and workers/equipment near high traffic areas. Make sure to slow down when approaching construction zones (even if workers aren’t present or seen - you may not be aware that there are workers in or around parked vehicles or other obstructions) and obey posted signs and reduced speed limits and follow flaggers’ directions carefully. Also take care to avoid distractions by keeping both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road and allowing extra time for detours or delays.
Busier Highways and Increased Traffic
Summer travel surges as families hit the road for vacations, students return home, and tourists travel between destinations, causing highways to become more congested, increasing the risk of collisions. Make sure to maintain a safe following distance, especially in heavy traffic or bottleneck areas and plan your route in advance - avoiding peak travel times (when possible). Also be prepared by keeping an emergency kit in your car, containing: water, snacks, and essentials should you end up stuck on the road or forced to take an unprecedented detour.
Summer Activities: Hauling Safely
Some summer drivers haul boats, jet skis, or campers, often with limited experience towing. Improper setups can lead to dangerous situations such as trailer swaying or tire blowouts. Make sure to always check that your vehicle is rated to tow your load, inspect tires, lights and hitches before every departure and use extra caution when breaking, turning, or entering narrowed lanes with an oversized haul.
Heat Related Issues
High temperatures can take a toll on both you and your vehicle. Tire blowouts and overheated engines are more common in summer months, check fluid levels (coolant, oil, brake fluid) and tires for any wear or deflation regularly. For drivers, take frequent breaks during long drives and drink plenty of water and eat healthy snacks to stay hydrated and focused.
Are you or someone you know looking to get their drivers licence?
AAPEX Driving Academy offers e-learning classes or in-person classes at 8 different locations throughout the Niagara Region for theory learning! Receive ten hours of 1-on-1 in-car instruction to follow your theory learning along with a homework booklet with 10 hours of independent research. Upon completion of our program, students can take their G2 road test within 8 months of receiving their G1 licence (oppose to waiting the full 12 month period), students may also be entitled to an insurance discount* and all enrolled program students will receive a FREE one-year Everyday CAA Membership, which for AAPEX students ONLY - provides ONE roadside assistance call on top of all the retail, food and entertainment discounts from our Rewards Partners!
*insurance discounts vary amongst insurance providers, please speak to your broker or insurance company for more information on insurance rates / insurance discounts are not guaranteed
Ontario