Summer Safety in South Georgia: Avoiding Accidents on the Road

South Georgia summers are full of sunshine, family trips, and community events. But with more people on the road, there’s also a greater risk of car accidents. At The Rodd Firm, we care about keeping our neighbors safe. Whether you’re heading to the beach, visiting relatives, or just running errands, this guide will help you avoid accidents and stay safe behind the wheel this summer.

Why Do Accidents Increase During Summer?

There are a few reasons why accidents happen more often in the summer months:

More people are driving
Kids are out of school, families take vacations, and local events bring in traffic.
Teen drivers are on the road
Young, inexperienced drivers are more likely to get into accidents.
Heat affects your car
High temperatures can lead to tire blowouts, overheating, and other problems.
There are more bikes and pedestrians
Warm weather means more people are walking, biking, or riding motorcycles.

All of these factors can make South Georgia roads more dangerous during the summer.

Tip #1: Keep Your Car in Good Shape

Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is ready for summer driving. A poorly maintained car is more likely to break down or cause an accident.

Check your tires (Hot roads can cause tire pressure to rise, leading to blowouts)
Look at your fluids (Keep your oil, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid topped off)
Test your battery (Heat can wear it down faster)
Don’t forget your brakes (Make sure they’re working well and not making strange noises)

A simple checkup can prevent serious problems later on.

Tip #2: Avoid Distracted Driving

With texts, phone calls, and GPS updates, it’s easy to get distracted while driving. But distracted driving is one of the top causes of car accidents in Georgia.

Put your phone down (Use hands free if you need to make a call)
Set your GPS before you go (Don’t try to program it while driving)
Focus on the road (Even looking away for a second can cause a crash)

Georgia has strict hands-free laws, and violating them can lead to fines (or worse, an accident).

Tip #3: Watch Out for Motorcycles, Bicycles, and Pedestrians

More people are outside during the summer. You’ll see more people out walking, biking, or riding motorcycles as the weather warms up.

Give space (Leave at least 3 feet when passing a bicycle)
Use your mirrors (Check carefully before changing lanes)
Slow down in neighborhoods and near parks (Kids might run out into the street without warning)

Being aware of others on the road can help prevent a tragic accident.

Tip #4: Prepare for Summer Storms

South Georgia is known for sudden summer thunderstorms. Wet roads and heavy rain make driving more dangerous.

Turn your headlights on (This helps you see and be seen)
Slow down (Rain makes roads slippery)
Never drive through flooded roads (You can lose control or get stuck)

Always check the weather before a long dive. A little planning goes a long way.

Tip #5: Don’t Drive Tired

Summer trips often mean early mornings or late nights, but drowsy driving is extremely dangerous.

Take breaks (Stop every couple of hours on long trips)
Switch drivers if you can (Sharing the wheel helps everyone stay alert)
Know the signs (If you’re yawning, drifting, or having trouble keeping your eyes open, it’s time to pull over)

Fatigue slows your reaction time and makes it harder to make good decisions.

Tip #6: Use Extra Caution in Tourist Areas

Whether you’re traveling locally or headed out of town, it’s important to watch the roads and drivers around you. Drivers who are out of town may not know the roads well, which can lead to sudden stops or wrong turns.

Stay patient (Don’t tailgate or speed around others drivers)
Give extra room (Tourists may be unsure or lost)
Watch for sudden moves (Expect the unexpected near popular spots)

What To Do If You’re in an Accident This Summer

Even if you do everything right, accidents can still happen. Here’s what you should do if you’re involved in a crash:

Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
Safety comes first. Call for help if anyone is hurt.
Call the Police
Always report the accident. A police report can help protect your legal rights.
Move to a Safe Place
If you can, pull off the road to avoid more danger.
Exchange Information
Get names, phone numbers, insurance information, etc.
Take Pictures
Use your phone to photograph the scene, vehicles, and any injuries.
Speak with an Attorney
Before talking to the insurance company, call a lawyer to make sure your rights are protected.

At The Rodd Firm, we know how stressful an accident can be. That’s why we offer free consultations and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

When to Contact the Rodd Firm

Not sure if you need a lawyer? Our team is happy to discuss your case and evaluate next steps. All you have to do is just give us a call: 229-421-7777. The Rodd Firm is proud to serve South Georgia families. We understand the challenges that come with a serious accident, and we know how to handle the insurance companies so you can focus on healing.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy a Safe and Happy Summer

Summer in South Georgia is a special time, full of sunshine, backyard cookouts, and trips with loved ones. By driving safely, staying alert, and knowing what to do after an accident, you can help make sure your summer stays FUN and accident-free.

And if the worst happens, The Rodd Firm is here to help. Our team is ready to support you every step of the way. We’ll fight for your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and help you get your life back on track.

Wishing you a safe and joyful summer, from all of us at The Rodd Firm!