What are the precautions for driving on highways in summer?
4 Answers
Here are the precautions for driving on highways in summer: 1. Do not confront large trucks. Large trucks can weigh hundreds of tons, and the additional cargo often exceeds expectations. Small cars should not compete with large trucks for lanes or engage in aggressive driving, as the consequences can be extremely severe—do not gamble with your life. 2. Do not drive while fatigued. Driving while fatigued on highways is extremely dangerous; the probability of an accident while driving drowsy is almost 100%, and the chance of survival in such accidents is very low. Therefore, never drive while fatigued. If you feel tired while driving, be sure to rest at a service area; otherwise, you may regret it deeply. 3. Avoid driving in the overtaking lane (the lane closest to the median barrier) for extended periods unless overtaking. Always overtake from the overtaking lane and never from the far-right emergency lane, as it is highly dangerous. Avoid weaving between lanes—do not switch between the overtaking lane and the regular driving lane unpredictably, and never abruptly slow down or stop without warning in the driving lane. 4. Do not drive side by side with other vehicles, and always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. While driving, be clear about where to exit and prepare in advance. Avoid making sudden lane changes or braking abruptly near exits.
Having driven on highways for many years, I know that the summer heat multiplies the risks. It's crucial to check your tires in advance—both overinflated and underinflated tires are prone to blowouts. I recommend adjusting them to the standard pressure before departure and confirming it during rest stops. Monitor the coolant temperature as well, as engines can easily overheat in high temperatures. After parking, don’t turn off the engine immediately; let the fan cool it down. Avoid setting the air conditioning too low, as sudden temperature changes can cause dizziness—around 22°C is most comfortable. Additionally, long highway drives can lead to fatigue, especially in the afternoon. Take a 10-minute break every hour at rest stops, hydrate to prevent heatstroke. Keep a fire extinguisher and an emergency toolkit handy. If your car breaks down during the trip, pull over to the emergency lane, turn on the hazard lights, place a warning triangle, and move away from the vehicle before calling for help. In short: careful prevention, safety first.
High-speed travel is quite enjoyable, but you need to be cautious under the scorching summer sun. I always apply sunshade film to the car windows to reduce the interior temperature. When using the air conditioning, don't just aim for coolness—setting the temperature too high increases fuel consumption, while too low can easily make you freeze. Keeping it at a moderate level is ideal. Don't be lazy about drinking water either; bring a water bottle and hydrate frequently. Dehydration in high temperatures slows your reaction time, which can affect safe driving. What if you get a flat tire? Don’t panic—gradually slow down and pull over, then either change to the spare tire yourself or call for a tow. Also, remember to carry some emergency supplies, like a sunshade umbrella or a first-aid kit. If the air conditioning fails and the car turns into a sauna, you’ll still have ways to cool down. These habits make every journey safe and comfortable.
Summer highway driving poses many hazards, and a single lapse in attention can lead to major accidents. It's crucial to monitor tire conditions, as high temperatures and hot road surfaces frequently cause blowouts—checking tread depth and tire pressure is essential. Additionally, ensure the radiator has enough coolant to prevent overheating and stalling. Fatigue is another significant issue, especially during long midday drives when drowsiness sets in; plan ahead to take a break every two hours. If your car breaks down on the roadside, immediately turn on hazard lights, place a warning triangle, and move to a safe area outside the guardrail to call for help. Don’t forget essential equipment like a fire extinguisher for emergencies. Following these simple steps ensures a safer journey.
