You may be breathing a big sigh of relief now that the snows have finally stopped and the roads are free of ice – but hold on: Spring brings its own unique driving hazards.
Since spring is also when a lot of folks plan mini-vacations and take some long-awaited road trips following the winter lull, here are a few quick reminders that may help you be proactive about your safety:
1. Beware rapidly changing weather conditions
Spring is notorious for fluctuating weather patterns, where you can have clear skies one minute and high winds and rain the next. The unpredictable weather conditions can significantly affect the visibility you have of the road, the traction under your wheels and your stopping distances. Get in the habit of checking the weather report before you leave the house so you can be prepared and adjust your travel times accordingly.
2. Watch out for pedestrians, bikes and motorcycles
Everybody wants to get outside in the spring, so expect a sharp uptick in the number of people you see walking their dogs, jogging, riding their bikes or out on their motorcycles – especially when you’re traveling through residential areas and small business districts. Slow down and make sure that you check your blind spots before you make any turns, to protect yourself and others from accidents.
3. Get your allergies under control
Spring allergies are a problem for a lot of people, and they’re also a driving hazard. Untreated allergic rhinitis is considered one of the most dangerous conditions you can have behind the wheel. A sudden sneeze can cause your foot to hit the wrong pedal or force your eyes closed at a critical moment and lead to a wreck, and the general “brain fog” that comes with acute allergies can interfere with your reaction times and judgment. Find the medication routine that works without causing drowsiness or disorientation and stick with it for safety.
Being proactive about these particular spring driving hazards can reduce the chances that you’ll be involved in a wreck, but they can’t eliminate the possibility entirely. If you do end up in a wreck, learning more about how personal injury claims work can help you move forward.
