While Northern Ireland is more renowned for its green landscapes than blistering heatwaves, the rare warm and sunny days bring their own set of challenges for motorists. Beyond the discomfort of a too-warm seat or a stuffy cabin, failing to prep your car for the heat can lead to safety issues and vehicular damage.
Here are our top tips to help you avoid road issues and ensure a pleasant drive during those lovely sunny days in Northern Ireland.
1) Mind Your Tyres
The rare extra hot days in Northern Ireland can affect your tyres more than you’d think. With heat causing expansion, a quick check and adjustment of tyre pressure can prevent blowouts on roads from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry and beyond.
2) Ensure Your Car Stays Cool on the Outside
Just as you’d pack a cooler for a day at the Giant’s Causeway, your car needs its fluids topped up. Pay special attention to coolant and oil to keep your engine running smoothly on those warmer days.
3) Ensure Your Car Stays Cool on the Inside
Ensure your air conditioning is in top condition. For drives along the Antrim Coast, consider rolling down the windows to enjoy the sea breeze. A windscreen sunshade can keep your car cooler when parked, protecting your seats and steering wheel from becoming too hot to handle.
4) Protect Your Eyes
With sun glare a common hazard, especially when driving towards the Mourne Mountains during sunset, ensure you have a quality pair of sunglasses. Sun dazzle contributes to numerous accidents across the UK, and NI is no exception.
5) Battery Maintenance
Our mild climate can be tough on car batteries, and the occasional hot day doesn’t help. Get your battery checked to avoid being stranded on the side of the road, perhaps on your way to a sunny day out at Portrush.
6) Passenger Comfort is Key
On a drive to one of Northern Ireland’s beautiful beaches, lightweight clothing and chilled bottled water can keep everyone happy and comfortable. Never leave pets in the car on hot days, even with the window cracked.
7) Watch for Heat Exhaustion
Driving requires focus, and heat exhaustion can impair your ability to react. Recognize the signs: nausea, dizziness, and excessive sweating. Pull over safely if you’re not feeling well.
8) Regular Vehicle Check-ups
Beyond seasonal adjustments, ensure your vehicle undergoes regular maintenance. This proactive approach can prevent many issues related to both hot and cold weather driving.
9) Plan Your Route
Familiarise yourself with your route before setting off. Roadworks and popular events can cause unexpected delays, especially during the summer. Apps and local radio can provide real-time updates, keeping you informed from the Glens of Antrim to the Fermanagh Lakelands.
Summing It Up
Driving in Northern Ireland’s warm weather brings its own joy, especially with the right kinds of precautions in place. Enjoy the scenic routes and historic landmarks safely by preparing your vehicle and yourself for the journey.
If you’ve found this useful, check out our top tips for driving in the snow and icy conditions!
Get involved in an accident in Northern Ireland and need to speak with a solicitor?
At Paschal O’Hare Personal Injury Solicitors, we’re well-versed in the intricacies of road traffic accidents in Northern Ireland. If you’ve been involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault in the last 3 years, speak with our solicitors. Learn more about how we can help or contact us today.
Stay safe, and enjoy the drive!
