Imagine cruising down the highway on a sunny day, the sky clear and the road dry. It seems like the perfect time to drive leisurely or hop on your motorcycle. After all, it’s during rainy or bad weather that you’re more likely to get into a road accident, right?
Surprisingly, though, ideal weather conditions can also increase your risk of car or motorcycle accidents.
Overconfidence in perfect conditions
When the sun is shining and visibility is high, you may feel overconfident or complacent. You’re more likely to let your guard down when it’s sunny, clear or even cloudy than when it’s raining. This can lead to:
- Lower attention or care in checking mirrors
- Failure to maintain a safe following distance
- Increased speeds due to better visibility
- More distractions like using your phone or enjoying scenic views
A study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration supports this. Findings show that 97% of motorcycle accidents in 2021 happened in clear or cloudy conditions. In comparison, only 2% of motorcycle accidents occurred during rainy weather.
Increased traffic and sun glare
Good weather usually means more people are out and about. Roads become busier with other cars, motorcycles and pedestrians. The increase in traffic can lead to more congestion and the potential for collisions.
Additionally, too much sun can limit your vision. Sun glare is a serious safety hazard for drivers. When it’s bright and sunny, and there aren’t any clouds in the sky, you can experience sudden and temporary blindness from the sun’s glare. If this happens, it’s easy to miss pedestrians and even large vehicles crossing your path.
Vigilance through all weather conditions
While we often associate dangerous driving conditions with rain, snow or fog, it’s crucial to remain alert in all weather. By understanding the unique risks that come with clear skies and sunshine, you can better protect yourself and others on the road.
Take note that even if you practice vigilance on the road, you can’t always say the same about other drivers. If you get into an accident due to another driver’s negligence, a legal professional may help prove your observance of road safety and rules.