When outdoor temperatures begin to rise, people start to flock to the outdoors. This often means an increase in the amount of traffic that you see on public roadways during the summer months. Sharing the roadway with more cars means a greater likelihood of being involved in an auto accident.
Filing an insurance claim for an auto accident can cause your premiums to go up. Try following these simple tips to help you avoid an auto insurance claim as you hit the road this summer.
1. Allow yourself extra travel time.
If you know that you need to be somewhere at a specific time, it's best to leave your home well in advance during the summer months. You want to allow yourself extra time to navigate traffic and experience delays.
Having a little extra travel time can help you stay calm and alert while behind the wheel. You won't need to speed to arrive at your destination on time, allowing you to use defensive driving tactics to help you avoid a serious auto accident.
2. Get your car's battery tested.
A vehicle that is in good working condition can be a valuable tool when it comes to preventing auto accidents. The battery that supplies power to your car can have a difficult time performing properly in hot weather. Older batteries are especially susceptible to failure during the summer months.
A dead battery could leave you stranded in the middle of the road with your vehicle, putting you at risk of being hit by another driver. You can avoid the insurance claim associated with an auto accident by having a mechanic test your battery and replace it with a new one if the current battery can't withstand the summer heat.
3. Invest in a GPS device.
Being able to drive confidently to your destination can help you avoid being involved in an accident. Many people visit new locations during the summer, and having a GPS device installed in your car can provide you with turn-by-turn directions.
It's best to avoid using the GPS app on your cell phone, as you might be tempted to check a text message or take a phone call while accessing directions. Distracted driving can be deadly, so avoid a potential accident by relying on a GPS device for your navigation needs instead.
Don't let changes in traffic during the summer put you at risk. Be proactive in leaving early, having your car battery tested, and installing a GPS device to help you avoid having to file an auto insurance claim this summer.