The summer months see an uptick in tourism, especially in waterfront communities. People from all over the country and across the state travel to make the most of what the area has to offer.
The rise in tourism during summer months can generate money for local businesses, but it also puts people at risk. Drivers face increased risk of a traffic collision in part because of the three specific risks below, which are associated with a surge of tourists.
1. Navigation-related distraction
People who are unfamiliar with the area often rely on navigation software to reach their hotels and other destinations. Regardless of whether they use GPS software in their phones or built-in navigation support systems, that technological support is a source of serious distraction.
2. Fatigued driving
People on road trips may have been behind the wheel for far longer than is safe. Even those who are only on the road at the beginning and end of each day of their trip may have gone a substantial time since they slept well. Fatigue affects decision-making capabilities, reaction times and even the ability to focus.
3. Impaired driving
Many people celebrate their vacations with their favorite cocktails or a local beer. Those who have had too much to drink often feel compelled to drive back to their hotels, which can lead to serious, preventable collisions.
Both tourists involved in collisions caused by other drivers and local residents injured by tourists may need help pursuing compensation after a motor vehicle collision, and that’s okay. Identifying and accounting for tourism-related risk factors can help people optimize their safety in traffic and hold the right people responsible after a crash.