With summer winding down and daily routines shifting toward fall, August is a period of transition on the nation’s roadways. It is also a month associated with a spike in accident rates, underscoring the need for increased driver awareness. That’s why August is designated as National Traffic Awareness Month—a valuable reminder for all drivers to stay focused, remain alert, and be mindful of the unique risks this time of year brings.
One Last Summer Getaway
For many people, August offers a final opportunity to squeeze in a road trip, beach outing, or family vacation before the summer season ends. This travel surge means increased traffic congestion, more drivers preoccupied with getting to their destinations, and an uptick in pedestrians and cyclists in unfamiliar areas—often distracted or unaware of the traffic around them.
Staying alert is vital for commercial motor vehicle drivers, especially near recreational hotspots like parks, beaches, lakes, and scenic routes. In these areas, visitors may make sudden stops, overlook or ignore signage, or drive unpredictably. Pedestrians might step into the streets without warning, assuming drivers will yield. Your vigilance can help reduce risks and ensure safer travel for everyone.
Back-to-School Brings New Hazards
By mid-to-late August, school zones begin buzzing with activity once again. Bright yellow buses return to their routes, kids fill sidewalks and bike lanes, and parents navigate the chaos of drop-off and pick-up routines. Meanwhile, newly licensed teen drivers are making their first independent commutes to school. All this activity adds up to heavier traffic and a higher potential for crashes, particularly during peak school travel hours.
To navigate these challenges safely, remain extra vigilant in and around school zones and residential areas. Slow down, obey posted speed limits, and be prepared to brake. Watch out for children who may dart into the road, forget to look both ways, or get distracted by friends and devices. These early weeks of the school year are a critical time to prioritize caution and patience behind the wheel.
Beat the Heat, Stay Sharp
In August, fatigue can sneak up on even the most seasoned commercial drivers. Long hours behind the wheel, coupled with intense summer heat, can cause dehydration, slower reaction times, and even microsleeps.
Combat heat-related fatigue by prioritizing rest, drinking plenty of water, eating light and nutritious meals, and taking regular breaks. If you begin to feel drowsy, pull over in a safe area and resume driving only once you are fully alert. This is an important message any time—but it’s one that takes center stage during National Traffic Awareness Month.
Impaired Driving Doesn’t Take a Holiday
With Labor Day around the corner, celebrations often kick off well before the holiday weekend. To help keep roads safe, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is again sponsoring its annual “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. From August 15 through September 1, 2025, law enforcement agencies across the country will be stepping up patrols to identify and remove impaired drivers from the road.
As a professional, you understand the dangers of impaired driving. But others may not realize that even a small amount of alcohol can affect their ability to drive safely. Therefore, it’s essential to watch out for other motorists exhibiting signs of impairment such as swerving, inconsistent speeds, failure to signal, or drifting between lanes. If you suspect a driver is under the influence, keep your distance and report it when safe to do so.
Caution in Construction Zones
August is a prime month for road construction and maintenance projects, which can lead to lane closures, detours, and slowdowns.
When navigating work zones, follow warning and directional signs and comply with the instructions of road crew flaggers. Stay at or below the posted work zone speed limit, adjusting your speed to match conditions. Be especially mindful of construction workers and equipment and remain prepared for sudden stops or lane shifts.
National Traffic Awareness Month Encourages Safer Roads
As National Traffic Awareness Month reminds us, August is a critical time to stay alert and prioritize safety on the road. By embracing the spirit of this awareness campaign, professional drivers can set a strong example and help reduce accidents during this busy, transitional period. And while National Traffic Awareness Month highlights these important safety messages, the commitment to vigilant and cautious driving should extend well beyond August—to protect yourself and everyone sharing the road throughout the year.
