Out and about this summer? How you drive in the heat will affect how safe and comfortable you and your passengers are. In this article, we’ll help you stay confident on the road.
Do you know the best way to drive in summer? Or how to find that perfect spot of shade? We’ll cover everything from how to manage sun glare to how to keep your passengers with individual needs comfortable. If something happens, we give you breakdown cover with the RAC, so you can travel with peace of mind.
You might have seen our guide to safe summer driving. That gave you lots of tips on how to stay safe on the road this summer, including what to bring with you on your trips.
In this article, we go further and look at the best ways to drive, and how to treat your car after each trip.
Here are some things to think about during and after your journey:
- Safe driving tips for summer
- Handy tips for the end of your journey
- What to do if your car’s overheating
Safe driving tips for summer
Excited and ready to set off on your summer holidays? The most important thing is that you get there and back safely.
Here are our top driving tips to keep you and your passengers safe:
How to manage sun glare
Sunlight hitting the dirt and debris on your windscreen can cause a dangerous glare, which affects how well you can see. If this happens, slow down in a safe and controlled way. Do not push down hard on your brakes.
Keeping your windscreen clean can help lessen this effect. Make sure your glass is free from any glare-inducing cracks or scratches before you set off. If you notice a chip or a crack, book a repair as soon as possible.
Remember your sunglasses too. They’ll improve your visibility of the road. It’s a good idea to keep a pair in your car all year round.
Some shades are not suitable for driving, so make sure you choose the right ones. If you’re visually impaired, you can check out our guide to travelling safely.
Lastly, always put your sun visors down when it’s sunny. They’re there to shield your eyes. You might need to raise them from time to time, to see when traffic lights change, or read a sign.
How to stop your car overheating
If your car was roadworthy before you set off, you hopefully should not have any problems during your journey.
But it’s important you understand your dashboard’s warning lights. They’ll give you an early warning of any problems. Check your car’s handbook or app to familiarise yourself with the symbols.
Remember to drive with care
Hot weather usually means more cars and motorbikes, but also a higher number of cyclists. And even horse riders in more rural areas.
Always drive with care. Give cyclists more space, lower your speed around them, be aware of them turning, and overtake with caution.
Handy tips for the end of your journey
At the end of a long, tiring journey, your car will be keen to cool down, just like you. Giving your car time to get ready for its next journey will help make your return trip safer.
Here are our quick and handy tips, for when your journey ends:
Seek out some shade
Try to park your car in a garage or in as much shade as possible, to give it a break from the heat. This is extra important if you’re driving again on the same day, like a day trip to the coast. And charge up your electric vehicle (EV), if you’re near a chargepoint.
Set up sunshades
Not able to park in the shade? You can use windscreen sunshades to keep the heat out instead. This will keep the inside of your car cool and help when you set off.
Never forget your FORCES
The RAC recommends you think about five key ‘FORCES’ before any trip in hot weather. We walk you through these in our guide to safe summer driving.
Even if you’re not planning to drive again for a while, check your dashboard for any warning signs. Go through FORCES again to make sure you have no problems that need to be fixed.
How to keep your passengers with individual needs comfortable
You can read our guide to safe summer driving to see exactly how to keep all your passengers safe and comfortable. It’s important you think specifically about any passengers who have individual needs too.
They might need some extra ventilation, and other ways to cool down and hydrate. Ask them or their carer what they need, before your journey. And check in with them regularly on your rest stops.
What to do if your car’s overheating
Download the myRAC app. It’s the fastest and easiest way to get help if you break down.
You can also call RAC Motability Assist on 0800 73 111 73. Or on 1800 535 005 if you’re in the Republic of Ireland. They’re open all day, every day.
They’ll get someone out to you as soon as possible. At times, they’ll need to prioritise people who are at the roadside, so if you’re at home or in a safe place, it might take them a little longer.
Interested in joining the Scheme?
See how the Motability Scheme could help you stay mobile on your summer holidays.
Check if you’re eligible now.
