Safe2Drive Blog

June is a big month for summer road trips, but it’s also peak tornado season in many parts of the U.S., especially in the South and Midwest. While it’s not super common to see a tornado while driving, it’s always good to know what to do just in case. This blog post will help you stay safe if you’re ever on the road and spot severe weather.

Watch for the Warning Signs

Tornadoes can happen fast, but there are some clues that one might be forming. Keep an eye out for:

• A dark, greenish sky
• Large, low-hanging clouds that may start to rotate
• A loud roar that sounds like a freight train
• Debris being blown around in the air

If you’re hearing tornado sirens or see a tornado warning on your phone, take it seriously and act quickly.

Where NOT to Go

One of the biggest myths out there is that hiding under an overpass is a good idea during a tornado. It’s not! Wind can actually be stronger under an overpass and turn it into a wind tunnel full of flying debris. Stay far away from overpasses.

Best Places to Seek Shelter

Your number one goal is to get to a sturdy building if possible. Gas stations, rest stops, or any solid structure can offer protection from flying debris and high winds. If there’s a building nearby, get inside and go to the lowest level, away from windows.

What If You’re On the Highway?

If you’re on a highway and can’t get to a building, don’t keep driving toward the tornado. Try to exit the highway and find shelter. If that’s not an option and the tornado is nearby, your best bet is to get low and either lie flat in a ditch or low area and cover your head, or stay buckled in your car, keep the engine running, and cover your head with something like a jacket or blanket to protect from glass and debris.

Driving in a City or Rural Area

In a city, try to pull over safely and get into the nearest sturdy building. In rural areas, if there’s no shelter nearby, a ditch is often safer than staying in your vehicle. Wherever you are, don’t take shelter under trees or bridges, and stay alert for flooding as well as high winds.

Tornadoes are scary, but knowing what to do ahead of time can help you stay calm and make smart decisions. Stay weather-aware, check the forecast before road trips, and trust your instincts--if something doesn’t feel safe, it probably isn’t.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

June is a big month for summer road trips, but it’s also peak tornado season in many parts of the U.S., especially in the South and Midwest. While it’s not super common to see a tornado while driving, it’s always good to know what to do just in case. This blog post will help you stay safe if you’re ever on the road and spot severe weather.

School’s out, the sun’s shining, and summer is in full swing. That means more people are out on two wheels--whether it’s cyclists cruising down neighborhood streets or motorcyclists heading out for a scenic ride. June is one of the busiest months for bike and motorcycle traffic, so it’s super important for young drivers to brush up on how to safely share the road. Here are some simple things you can do to stay safe and be respectful of other road users this summer.

Give Bicyclists at Least 3 Feet of Space

In many states, it’s the law to give at least 3 feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist. This gives them room to avoid road hazards and helps prevent serious collisions. If you can’t safely give that much space, slow down and wait until you can. It’s worth the extra few seconds it takes.

Look Twice for Motorcycles

Motorcycles are smaller than cars, which makes them easy to miss, especially when you’re changing lanes or turning. Always check your mirrors and blind spots carefully. A quick glance isn’t enough! Make it a habit to really look twice before you move your vehicle.

Don’t Make Sudden Moves

Sudden lane changes or quick turns can be dangerous for everyone, but especially for people on bikes or motorcycles who don’t have the same level of protection as someone in a car. Use your turn signals early and try to be predictable so others can react safely. And remember, don’t swing your door open without checking for cyclists first!

Stay Alert in Busy Summer Spots

Summer festivals, beach towns, and city streets are magnets for both bicyclists and motorcyclists. If you’re driving in a bike-friendly area, slow down and stay extra alert. Be especially cautious at intersections and crosswalks, and give people on two wheels the right-of-way when appropriate.

Whether you’re heading to the beach or just out running errands, sharing the road is a part of safe driving. Stay aware, stay patient, and remember, everyone deserves to get where they’re going safely.

Want to learn more about safe driving?

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

School’s out, the sun’s shining, and summer is in full swing. That means more people are out on two wheels--whether it’s cyclists cruising down neighborhood streets or motorcyclists heading out for a scenic ride. June is one of the busiest months for bike and motorcycle traffic, so it’s super important for young drivers to brush up on how to safely share the road. Here are some simple things you can do to stay safe and be respectful of other road users this summer.

School’s out, bags are packed, and the open road is calling. It’s officially summer road trip season! But before you blast your playlist and hit the gas, take a minute to go over some common mistakes drivers make on long summer drives. A little planning now can save you from big headaches later.

Here are 7 things to NOT do on your road trip this summer:

1. Driving Distracted or Drowsy

It’s tempting to check your GPS, text a friend, or scroll for the perfect playlist, but keep your eyes on the road. Distracted driving is one of the top causes of collisions. And don’t forget that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous. Take breaks, switch drivers if you can, and don’t push through if you’re feeling sleepy.

2. Skipping Vehicle Maintenance

Before you leave, check your tire pressure, oil, coolant, brakes, battery, and wiper blades. Hot weather can be hard on your car, especially if you’re driving a long distance. A quick check-up now can prevent a breakdown later.

3. Ignoring Speed Limits in Unfamiliar Areas

Speed limits can change quickly from highways to small towns—especially in vacation spots. Keep an eye on signs and don’t rely entirely on cruise control or what other drivers are doing. Getting pulled over or caught by a speed camera is no fun (and expensive).

4. Overloading Your Vehicle

Overloading your vehicle can affect braking, steering, and fuel economy. Check your vehicle’s weight limits and try to pack smart. If you’re towing a trailer, make sure it’s hitched and balanced correctly.

5. Forgetting to Check Your Insurance

Make sure your auto insurance is up to date and that you know what your coverage includes. Planning to rent a car? Call your provider or check your policy to see what’s covered. It’s also smart to keep a printed copy of your insurance card in the glove box.

6. Skipping Emergency Gear

Always keep a basic emergency kit in your car. That means jumper cables, a flashlight, phone charger, water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. A roadside emergency can happen anywhere—even just a few hours from home.

7. Not Planning Enough Breaks

It’s not just about the destination! Build in time for breaks so you can stretch, eat, and enjoy the trip. It’ll help you stay alert and avoid rushing, which cuts down on risky driving behavior.

With just a few smart moves, you can avoid these common road trip mistakes and make your summer adventure smooth and safe.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

School’s out, bags are packed, and the open road is calling. It’s officially summer road trip season! But before you blast your playlist and hit the gas, take a minute to go over some common mistakes drivers make on long summer drives. A little planning now can save you from big headaches later.