Driving Safely In The Heat

Driving in the heat, and driving safely in extreme heat, are things that become easier with the right preparation and precaution and are something we need to start getting used to, with rising summer temperatures. We've created a short list of things you can do before, and after you start your journey.

COOLANT

The most important check you can perform is your coolant, if the coolant level in your cooling system is too low you run the risk of your car overheating. Nowadays, most cars will let you know if the coolant is low on the dashboard, however, if this is something you need to do manually, the AA have an article that gives you step by step guide to your vehicles coolant: Checking Your Engines Coolant.

TYRES

In the hot weather, be aware your tyre pressure is likely to increase as your tyres overheat and inflate. Todays tyres are designed to have a high heat resistance, but during a heatwave, you should be checking your tyre pressure at least every week to ensure car safety.

ON BOARD BAG

When going on a longer journey, we always advise you prepare for the worst in the summer months and winter months. Jumper cables, a water bottle, sunglasses and a windshield screen are things we would consider essential for summer driving. You may also want to bring things like sun cream, a hat or a map if you need to leave the vehicle for a walk, although these things aren't as important for safe driving as those above, they are still a good idea for a comfortable road trip.

FOR ANY AND ALL DRIVERS

• Driving with glare: We’ve all experienced those morning and evening low suns, we recommend you always drive with access to sunglasses, and if you find visibility to be reduced, put your hazards on, slow down safely and lower your sun visor.
• Driving on slick roads: In the event of a sudden deluge, you may find your car aquaplaning. Avoid slamming the breaks and resist the urge to slow down quickly, instead, release the accelerator slowly, hold the steering wheel straight and wait for the car to regain grip. If your car is equipped with Cruise Control, turn this off as your car is losing grip.
• Windows open, or aircon on? Although this is down to preference, there are some factors in this debate worth considering, particularly with the rising fuel costs in the UK at the moment. A general rule is that above 45mph, the resulting drag on the car reduces the miles per gallon more than an air conditioning would. There are also implications for drivers of hybrid models, Emissions Analytics conducted a study comparing the impact on cars with varying engines and found where a petrol loses 3.8% efficiency with the aircon on, this is as high as 6.1% for hybrid models.