As high temperatures continue and more people hit the roadways during the summer months, California Department of Transportation District 2 reminds motorists of the following summer driving tips:
- Never leave a child or pet in a hot vehicle.
- Summertime is construction time for many roadway projects. Allot extra time for delays and drive slowly and carefully in and around work zones. Move over when possible and be work zone alert. Check the accompanying infographic for more work zone tips.
- Make sure vehicles are in good running condition. Check tires and fluids and have a full tank of gas.
- Watch lights and gauges. If the temperature gauge shows an increase, turn off the air conditioner and turn on the heater to help draw heat away from the engine.
- If the temperature gauge indicator enters the red zone, immediately pull off the road, well away from traffic. Driving with an overheated engine can cause serious damage to a vehicle. Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot.
- Do not park a hot vehicle on dry vegetation. When towing, make sure connections are tight and no cables are dragging on the ground.
- Properly dispose of cigarette butts.
- When driving, carry water, snacks, a first aid kit, a charged cell phone, sturdy walking shoes and a hat.
- Do not drive distracted. California law prohibits texting or talking on a cell phone while driving unless a hands-free device is utilized. Turn down music to be able to hear horns and sirens.
- Check road conditions before departing using QuickMap at http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ (also available by app), One-Stop-Shop at http://oss.weathershare.org/ or the Caltrans District 2 website at https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-2.
Information provided by California Department of Transportation District 2
