Extreme Heat Creates Dangerous Conditions for Drivers and Roadside Technicians

July 1, 2026/Joe Ciccanti

As temperatures climb across the region, AAA is reminding drivers that extreme heat can be just as dangerous for vehicles as winter weather. Heat is a leading cause of summer breakdowns, with roadside crews responding to more calls for dead batteries, engine trouble and overheating vehicles.
Last summer, AAA Club Alliance assisted more than 27,500 motorists in Delaware, including more than 7,000 battery-related calls. Battery calls are already increasing this week ahead of the expected heat.
AAA is also taking steps to protect roadside technicians with additional hydration, cooling measures and safety protocols, while reminding drivers to slow down and move over for roadside workers and disabled vehicles. Drivers are encouraged to check their battery, coolant and tire pressure before traveling, carry water and an emergency kit, and watch for signs of overheating. If a breakdown occurs, pull safely off the road, turn on your hazard lights, call for help, and remain in a safe location while waiting for assistance.

 

Additional Information from AAA:

As temperatures climb across the region, AAA is reminding drivers that extreme heat doesn’t just impact comfort—it can create dangerous conditions on the road for both motorists and roadside technicians.

High heat is one of the leading causes of vehicle breakdowns during the summer months. AAA’s Emergency Roadside Service (ERS) teams are responding to increased calls for dead batteries, engine trouble, and overheated vehicles. At the same time, roadside technicians face elevated risks working outdoors in extreme conditions.

“Extreme heat can be just as dangerous as winter weather when it comes to driving,” said Tracy Noble, spokesperson for AAA Club Alliance. “While our roadside technicians are trained and prepared to respond, we’re urging drivers to take precautions—for their own safety and for the safety of those working on the roadside.”

AAA Taking Steps to Protect Roadside Technicians

AAA is implementing a number of measures to help keep ERS responders safe during periods of extreme heat, including:

  • Enhanced safety protocols to reduce time spent exposed to high temperatures along roadways
  • Hydration and cooling measures, ensuring technicians have access to water, shaded breaks, and cooling equipment
  • Adjusted response practices, when possible, to minimize prolonged exposure during peak heat hours
  • Continued emphasis on Move Over laws, reminding drivers to slow down and move over when approaching roadside workers to allow them to work as quickly and efficiently as possible while out in the heat

What Drivers Can Do to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

AAA roadside rescue crews answered 30 million calls nationwide last year.  Historically, battery issues have made up about 25% of all calls. Last Summer, AAA Club Alliance came to the rescue of over 27,500 with more than 7,000 of those being battery calls in Delaware. Battery calls are already on the rise this week, even before the extreme heat gets here.  

AAA encourages drivers to take simple steps to avoid breakdowns and stay safe during a heat wave:

Before you go

  • Check your battery. Heat can shorten battery life and increase failure rates. Batteries usually last 3 to 5 years and should be checked regularly after the 3-year mark. AAA data shows heat – not cold – is the leading cause of battery failure.
  • Inspect coolant levels, cooling system components and engine fluids to prevent overheating.
  • Check tire pressure. Be Sure to keep your tires at recommended pressure and pay attention to low tire pressure warnings. Soft tires generate heat, which can lead to a blowout. Overinflated tires are also at greater risk for a blowout in extreme heat.
  • Pack an emergency kit, including extra water, snacks, for everyone in the car including pets, and a charged phone.

On the road

  • Watch for warning signs like rising temperature gauge levels or unusual smells.
  • Never leave children, seniors, or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a short time.
  • If your vehicle breaks down:
    • Immediately turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
    • Pull as far off the road as possible.
    • If you can keep the vehicle cool, stay inside if it’s safe to do so and keep your seatbelts buckled.
    • Call for help and wait in the shade if you must exit the vehicle.  If possible, get behind a guardrail or other barrier until help can arrive.
    • Open your car’s hood to clearly signal to passing motorists and law enforcement that you are experiencing mechanical trouble.
    • If safe to do so, place warning triangles, flares, or markers behind your vehicle.

Slow Down, Move Over, Save Lives

With more roadside incidents expected during extreme heat, AAA is also reminding drivers to follow Delaware’s Move Over law:

  • Slow down and move over for any flashing lights on the side of the road including disabled vehicles. 
  • If unable to move over due to heavy traffic, reduce speed significantly.

“This is about protecting everyone on the road,” said Noble. “A simple action—slowing down and moving over—can help prevent serious injuries or worse.”

 

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