How to Enjoy the Most of Your Car in the Summer
31 Dec 2009
As summer begins the days become hotter and lengthier which present adventure on the road. All though it can be exciting to take to the road there are still issues of weather and other hazards which could hinder the unsuspecting motorist.
Rain is not prevalent during the summer months, and as a result the roads get quite hot. They also collect debris which is not washed from the motorways. Dust, rubber, oil, and other minerals may begin to layer on the roads making them slick for the drivers of summer.
Slicker conditions appear after a short amount of rain. The debris is still on the road, but now it is mixed with the water which is not running off in the drains. This condition can surprise the unwary motorist more than you might consider.
Driving once it has rained, and then the roads warm again will affect how you can brake. In fact the distance will increase for the amount of brake time you need to stop or to go around a curve. The tyre grip is going to be less controlled.
Asphalt will be slicker after hot and dry conditions. The surface as it heats becomes polished. Vehicles help to increase this heated condition on well travelled roads.
Whilst the hot weather allows a keen driver the opportunity to enjoy the potential of their vehicle on a dry road in warm conditions, the climate and time of year also brings out a number of holiday drivers many of whom will be towing caravans. Whilst these holiday drivers can often temporarily disrupt an enjoyable drive, it is important to stay calm and not become irate with them, as they have just as much right to use the road as yourself.
Caravan drivers tend to drive for longer hours and distance. They may even be uncertain of the roads they are on. If children are in the caravan there can be more distractions. Moving without signalling can be a common occurrence of the caravan driver. You should be ready for the unsuspected. You will also need to contemplate whether you should pass them and be wary for any curves where a slow vehicle may be.
It is also important to consider leaving your sidelights or headlight bulbs on during the day when driving in the summer. Daytime running lights have been shown to reduce the risk of collisions by up to 12 percent, and with the large contrast between light and shade that the high summer sun brings, and the fact that most drivers will be wearing sun glasses, leaving your car lights on is a good way to ensure your vehicle is still noticed.
If you are considering running with your car lights on during the day it is well worth upgrading your Car Lights, to maximise their visibility and endurance. One area that your lights will really benefits is by fitting New Sidelight Bulbs, they are straight forward to fit and are available as either xenon or LED bulbs.
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