It’s the time of year when we can all hope for some nice summer weather! And quite often for visitors to Skipton, that means getting out on the open road and exploring what the local area has to offer. Whether you're embarking on a scenic drive through the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales or planning an extensive road trip across the countryside, summer driving offers an array of delightful experiences. However, this season also brings unique challenges that require careful attention and preparation to ensure your journeys remain safe and enjoyable.
Safe driving is paramount all year round, but the summer months present particular hazards. Increase in temperatures can affect vehicle performance, and the extra in road traffic can lead to more frequent accidents. Also, the excitement and relaxation associated with holidays can sometimes result in a carefree approach behind the wheel. Understanding and mitigating these risks is essential for a smooth and trouble-free driving experience in your hire vehicle. By recognising common summer driving mistakes and knowing how to avoid them, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and fellow road users. Let’s dive in.
Mistake 1: Failing to Adjust Driving Habits for Rental Vehicles
When opting for a rental vehicle, whether it's a car or a van hire in Skipton, it's crucial to spend time getting acquainted with its features. Every vehicle has its unique layout and controls, from the placement of windscreen wipers controls to the operation of the sat nav system. Before hitting the road, take a few moments to review the owner's manual, locate essential controls, and adjust the settings to your preferences. Proper mirror and seat adjustments are not just about comfort—they're about safety. Ensure that your mirrors provide a clear view of your surroundings and eliminate blind spots. Adjust your seat so that you have a clear line of sight over the steering wheel and can reach all pedals comfortably. These small adjustments can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve your driving experience.
Different vehicles handle and brake in unique ways. A van hire might have a different feel compared to a smaller car. Take your rental for a short test drive in a safe area to understand its handling and braking characteristics. Pay attention to how it responds to steering inputs, the sensitivity of the brakes, and its acceleration. This will help you feel more in control and prepared for different driving conditions.
Mistake 2: Overloading the Vehicle
Every vehicle has a maximum load capacity, which includes the weight of passengers and cargo. Overloading your rental car or van can strain the engine, reduce fuel efficiency, and increase general safety risks. It’s also a legal requirement to stick to a certified payload. We will always let you know the load limit of your hire vehicle, but it can also be found the handbook or on a sticker inside the driver's door. Overloading affects more than just fuel economy. It can impair handling, making the vehicle harder to steer and increasing stopping distances. This is particularly important for larger vehicles like vans, where an overloaded rear can cause fishtailing or tipping. Understanding these impacts helps you make better decisions about what and how much to pack. Pack strategically to avoid overloading. Distribute weight evenly, keeping heavier items low. Secure loose items to prevent them from moving around during transit.
Mistake 3: Distracted Driving
Summer driving can bring unique distractions, from scenic views to busy passengers. Children in the backseat, sat nav systems, and even roadside attractions can divert your attention from the road. Recognise these potential distractions and plan ways to manage them, such as setting up entertainment for kids before departure and programming the sat nav in advance. Using mobile devices while driving is one of the most dangerous distractions. Even a quick glance at your phone can take your eyes off the road long enough to cause an accident. Use hands-free systems if you must make calls and consider setting your phone to "Do Not Disturb" while driving to minimise temptation. Staying focused requires discipline and proactive measures. Take regular breaks to rest and refresh, especially on long trips. If you're driving a rental car or van, switch drivers if possible to avoid fatigue.
Mistake 4: Speeding and Reckless Driving
Good weather can create a false sense of security, tempting drivers to speed. Clear skies and dry roads might seem ideal for fast driving, but speeding increases the risk of accidents and reduces your ability to react to unexpected situations. Always adhere to speed limits, regardless of how inviting the open road may seem. Speeding can lead to severe consequences, including hefty fines, license points, and increased accident risk. High speeds reduce the time you have to react to hazards and increase the severity of collisions. Understanding these consequences can help reinforce the importance of maintaining safe speeds. To maintain safe speeds, if available, use the vehicle's cruise control where appropriate to avoid unintentional speeding. Pay attention to speed limit signs, which can change frequently in urban areas. In a rental van in particular, be mindful of speed limits on curves and downhill sections, where larger vehicles can gain speed more quickly.
Mistake 5: Underestimating the Sun's Impact
Sun glare can be blinding, especially during sunrise and sunset, reducing your visibility and reaction time. This is a common yet often underestimated hazard. Keep a pair of sunglasses handy to reduce glare and use your vehicle's sun visors effectively. Also, a hot car interior is uncomfortable and can be dangerous. Use reflective sunshades when parked, and open windows or use air conditioning to cool the vehicle before driving. Staying cool and well hydrated helps you stay alert and comfortable, improving your overall driving experience.
Safety Tips for Long Summer Drives
Plan your route in advance, including rest stops every couple of hours. This not only prevents fatigue but also allows you to enjoy local attractions along the way. Using a reliable sat nav or map can help you avoid traffic and find the best routes. Modern navigation tools are invaluable for long drives. Ensure your sat nav is up-to-date and consider using apps that provide real-time traffic updates and route suggestions. Dehydration can lead to drowsiness and impaired concentration. Keep water and healthy snacks in the car to stay hydrated and energised.
Final thoughts
Summer driving comes with its own set of challenges. From adjusting to a rental vehicle to avoiding distractions, speeding, and managing the sun's impact, each mistake can have serious consequences. By being aware of these pitfalls, you can take proactive steps to avoid them. Safe driving ensures that your summer trips are memorable for the right reasons.
Do you need a car or van this summer? We’re here to help. If you’re visiting Skipton or its surrounding areas or simply don’t want to put miles on your own vehicle, contact us today on 01756 792911 or use our contact form here.
