Driving in Summer: Stay Safe & Avoid Breakdowns

Whether you’re driving to the coast, heading off on a family road trip, or just out enjoying the sunshine—summer driving brings its own challenges.

From hot roads to heavy traffic, your car needs a bit of extra care. Here’s how to stay safe, protect your tyres, and keep your summer journeys stress-free.

Tyres First: The Hot Weather Danger Zone

When roads heat up, so do your car tyres—and that puts them at risk.

Summer temperatures can cause the air inside your tyres to expand, increasing the chances of a blowout.

Here’s how to prep your tyres:

• Check tyre pressure: Inflate them to the recommended PSI, especially if your car is full of luggage or passengers.
• Look for damage: If your tyres have cracks, bulges, or worn tread, then it is time for replacements.
• Don’t forget the spare: If you’ve only got a tyre repair kit, make sure you know how to use it.

Keeping Cool Behind the Wheel

Your car’s cooling system is likely to work extra hard during the hot summer weather.

If you have any issues with your cooling system, you run the risk of an overheating engine.

Some tips to make sure that your car remains cool when driving in hot weather include:

• Check coolant levels regularly.
• Make sure your radiator fan is working.
• Don’t ignore any dashboard warning lights.

Don’t forget yourself. Carry some bottled water in the car, wear sunglasses when there is glare, and take breaks in the shade.

Sun glare can reduce visibility. Keep your windscreen clean and it’s a good idea to have a backup pair of sunglasses in the glovebox.

Stay Safe in Summer Traffic

Holiday traffic, roadworks, and tractors—summer roads can be a nightmare. Staying calm and alert is key.

Top tips:

• Plan ahead. Use traffic apps to try and avoid traffic jams.
• Leave a gap. Keep a safe distance to avoid sudden braking.
• Stay calm. Don't let traffic lead to road rage. It only adds stress—and burns more fuel.

Watch Out for Cyclists, Walkers & Wildlife

Good weather tends to encourage more people to enjoy the outdoors. Cyclists, motorcyclists, and walkers are more common in summer. Especially on rural roads.

Make sure to be aware of an increase in pedestrian road users.

What to do:

• Slow down on narrow bends.
• Give cyclists plenty of room when overtaking.
• Keep an eye out for horses, deer, or pets near roadside homes.

Don’t Risk It with Hay Fever

Itchy eyes and sneezing fits are more than annoying—they’re dangerous behind the wheel.

If you suffer from hay fever:

• Check your medication doesn’t cause drowsiness.
• Close windows to reduce pollen.
• Keep tissues and water handy.
• Wear sunglasses to cut down irritation and glare.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

Even with the best planning, things can go wrong. If you break down in the heat, you’ll be glad you packed a summer emergency kit.

Must-haves:

• Bottled water for everyone (and a bowl for pets)
• Mobile phone charger
• Snacks that won’t melt
• Suncream and hats
• First aid kit
• Breakdown cover details

Need new tyres in a hurry? Consider our mobile tyre fitting service to get back on the road fast.

Don’t Let Summer Catch You Out

Driving in summer should be a joy—not a hassle.

With a few simple checks and the right gear in the boot, you can enjoy smoother, safer journeys all season long.

Looking for fresh tyres before your next trip? Search by reg and book online with Blackcircles.com in minutes.