The sun is beating down with temperatures breaking the 100 degree threshold across North Texas, and experts warn that, just like during the spring and winter, drivers need to be prepared for the conditions.
Over the last week we’ve already seen the toll that extreme heat can take on area roads.
On Thursday, U.S. Highway 75 buckled in Denison due to the heat and crews had to make emergency repairs to keep traffic moving.
That same day crews in University Park responded to a water main break that required road repairs as well.
Texas Department of Transportation representatives said Saturday that road damage from the heat isn’t generally caused by defects, rather it just kind of happens when the high temperatures put that much stress on the roadways; they said it’s really impossible to predict.
Other side-effects of the summer heat include the return of potholes of area roads and other small but potentially hazardous damage.
So TXDOT says it’s important that, like in storm season or winter, drivers should be driving for the conditions during the summer by slowing down and staying alert for hazards in the road.
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AAA Texas representative Doug Shupe said drivers also need to prepare their vehicles to handle the hazards of summer heat.
"Doing a little bit of that preventative maintenance, making sure that your vehicle is up to date with the maintenance recommendations before you leave is the best way to make sure your car is road worthy and less prone to experience a break down,” said Shupe.
He recommends drivers have their air conditioning systems checked, fluids topped off, and that car batteries be secured and checked every 3 years.
Shupe especially stressed that drivers check their tire pressure and tire treads to combat any damage they may come across on the roads.
"Bottom line is: make sure the vehicle has a real good look-over, make sure that it's up to date, fluids are properly filled, tire pressure, tire air is properly filled. You do not want to leave your driveway without making sure this stuff is done,” said Shupe.
Experts also recommend drivers have a survival kit packed in their vehicle in case of a breakdown and make sure that it contains a phone charger so you can call for help.
TXDOT asks drivers who do come across road damage to contact them via phone, their website, or social media so that repairs can be made, and if the damage is so bad that it could be considered an emergency, call 911.
