A Guide to Safe Summer Travel in Florida

From beaches and theme parks to natural springs and historical landmarks, Florida attracts adventure seekers year-round. However, summer is one of the busiest travel seasons in the state, and with it comes special considerations.

Daily temperature highs reach the upper 80s or well into the 90s, and it often feels even hotter due to high humidity. Now consider this: The temperature inside a vehicle can rise 20 degrees in as little as 10 minutes — and it continues to increase as more time passes. This puts children, vulnerable adults, and pets at risk for heatstroke if they are left in a vehicle. Always look before you lock your doors and don’t leave anyone in a vehicle, even for a “quick” errand.

The summer heat also makes under-inflated tires more susceptible to overheating, so check your tires often and keep them at the recommended pressure. Make it a habit to check your tire tread, too. Florida summers are known for rain, which can make the roadways slick. Without proper tread depth your tire traction decreases, and the time and distance it takes to brake increases. If you’re driving in the rain, turn on your headlights and windshield wipers. If you cannot see well, find a place to safely pull over until the rain clears. Monitor live roadway conditions at FL511.com.

Summer is no exception when it comes to safety! Always buckle up, follow the speed limit, and drive sober. Commit to driving distraction-free and keep up with your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.

Everyone deserves to return home safely from their adventures. Help make our roads safer by driving with care. For more safe summer travel tips, click here.