When you think safe driving over the summer, you may think of not driving drunk or not driving while tired. These are both important guidelines but they are not all you can do. In fact, you may be surprised to learn just how dangerous it can be to drive while you are overheated or dehydrated. Keep reading to learn more and then contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 if you have been in a car accident and require help from an experienced attorney.
The Danger in Overheating
According to one study, high temperatures can reduce a person’s ability to perform both physical and intellectual tasks, which can increase their chance of being involved in a car accident. The study found that during a heatwave, the risk of a motor vehicle accident went up by nearly 8%. The highest increase was in accidents involving tiredness, error, distractions, and fatigue.
Another study determined that drivers in hot weather are more likely to be fatigued and are more likely to drive out of their lane. They also make larger steering adjustments and are more likely to miss a traffic stop. They also found a link between hot days and an increase in road rage and other types of aggressive driving.
The Danger in Dehydration
There are many potential negative health effects of dehydration. You can experience dry skin, bad breath, and are more likely to crave sugar. Your chance of being in a car accident is also higher. In fact, both behavioral and physiology studies have shown that driver errors were nearly doubled in a two-hour drive when the driver was dehydrated.
Unfortunately, people will often purposely avoid drinking too much water before going on a long drive because they do not want to have to stop to use the bathroom. This can cause a host of issues including fatigue, headache, weakness, and dizziness – none of which are great for safe driving. Your alertness and concentration also decrease when you are dehydrated, which makes you more likely to make mistakes.
In fact, studies have shown that when a person is tired, drinking a large glass of water will help keep them alert and awake better than if they drank the equivalent amount of liquid in the form of soda or even coffee.
Stay Safe This Summer and Call Us if You Don’t
We hope that you will avoid accidents all summer but if you do suffer an injury you can contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation. We can discuss your case, inform you of your options, and we might be able to help you get the compensation you deserve.
