Summer in the Midwest can be a beautiful, relaxing time of year. It can also be a time to “take to the road” in order to seek adventure. Unfortunately, with increased traffic, unpredictable weather and the sometimes dangerous chaos associated with certain kinds of holiday celebrations, summer is also a peak season for car accidents.
Whether you’re driving through the populated streets of St. Louis, Missouri or roving the quiet of rural Illinois, staying safe on the roads this summer is going to require some extra attention and planning.
What to expect and how to stay as safe as you can
One of the biggest dangers during summer driving is sheer traffic volume. As more people take to the highways, congestion increases—especially around popular destinations, construction zones and major cities like St. Louis. Drivers should plan routes ahead of time and allow for delays, particularly around holiday weekends like the Fourth of July or Labor Day. Giving yourself extra time can minimize your stress and help you stay focused behind the wheel.
Construction zones are also more common in summer. Both Missouri and Illinois ramp up roadwork during the warmer months. If you’ve been in the Midwest for any length of time, you’ve likely even heard it repeated that “The Midwest has two seasons: Winter and road construction.” Road construction zones generally feature relatively sudden lane shifts, reduced speed limits and potentially unexpected stops. When traveling near road construction, it’s important to slow down, follow posted signs and watch for workers. Fines for speeding in construction zones can be steep, and crashes in these areas are often severe.
Fatigue and impaired driving are also serious risks during the summer. Long road trips, late nights and holiday parties can lead to drowsy or intoxicated driving. In both Missouri and Illinois, law enforcement increases patrols during major holidays to crack down on impaired drivers. Always assign a designated driver, take breaks on long drives and never get behind the wheel if you’re feeling tired or under the influence. Not only will this help you to avoid causing crashes, but it’ll also help you to react quickly if someone else is about to crash into you.
At the end of the day, staying alert and making smart decisions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer on Midwestern roads.