| Driving

Sunny days are here again with summer officially in full swing! It’s time for warmer weather, holiday festivities, and that long-awaited getaway. Summer is a special time of year that calls for celebration as folks gather for food and fun. But while you’re out enjoying the summertime, it’s important that you pay special attention to the other drivers out on the road. If you’ll be taking to the road during the summer months, stay safe with these tips.

Keep Your Cool in Holiday Traffic

Whether you’re traveling locally or taking a road trip this summer, you might find yourself stuck in a slow, frustrating holiday traffic jam. Annoying as it might be, one of the most important things you can do to stay safe is remain calm in traffic. Observe basic driving etiquette, and take some of our tips to stay less stressed on the way to your destination.

Got Car Insurance?

Because you never know what’s going to happen on the road, especially on a busy summer weekend, it’s smart to protect your car, yourself, and your passengers. Getting affordable car insurance is good for your wallet. Meet your state’s minimum requirements, include the coverage you want, add services like roadside assistance—however you want to work it out, get the coverage you need to be prepared for whatever comes your way.

Buzzed? Be Responsible!

If you choose to have a brew at a backyard barbeque this summer, be responsible. But if you need to get home afterward, don’t drive yourself—get a sober driver to take you instead. According to the NHTSA, someone in the U.S. dies in an alcohol-impaired-driving crash every 52 minutes. Designate a sober driver ahead of time so everyone gets to and from the celebrations safely.

Buckle Up for Safety

Before you get in the car and get on your way, always put on your seatbelt—and make sure everyone you’re riding with does, too. According to the NHTSA, wearing a seatbelt is estimated to save 14,955 American lives each year. And in many states, it’s the law. If you’re driving, check with your passengers before you get on the road. If you’re riding along, give your fellow passengers a friendly reminder if they don’t buckle up.

Watch Out for Motorcycles on the Roads

Bikers out for a ride this summer should be on the lookout for especially tricky traffic conditions—and their four-wheeled counterparts should do the same. Read up on motorcycle safety tips for drivers and riders alike so everyone can enjoy the holiday together!

Connect with Direct

What are your plans for the summer season? Let Direct Auto Insurance know on Twitter or Facebook.