Winter is finally over, spring is here, and the roads are beginning to look a little kinder. The snow is melting, the grass is growing and the flowers will be blooming any day now. However, just because we’ve made it through the winter doesn’t mean that the streets are hazard-free. Springtime driving has its own list of dangers, and whether you’re commuting to work and school or planning to travel across the country, it’s important to be aware of the common causes of spring season accidents.
Winter Damage. Snow and ice can wreak havoc on asphalt. Snow plows, salt, sand and freezing water leave behind cracks and potholes, so expect some new road damage as everything begins to melt.
Wildlife. Many animals are becoming more active as the hibernation season ends and mating season begins. Keep an eye out for wildlife on the roads, especially deer at night and early in the morning. When trying to avoid hitting an animal, you can brake but DO NOT SWERVE. Best practice is to tap on your brakes to warn vehicles behind you, honk, and then slow down as safely as possible to let the animal(s) pass.
People. The gorgeous, sunny weather is irresistible to pedestrians and cyclists, making spring one of the most dangerous times to be a distracted driver. Children will be playing in the streets, people will be walking around town and cyclists will be pedaling on every roadside, including those curvy country highways. Spring is also the season of the motorcycle, so don’t forget to take extra caution when changing lanes and making turns.
Weather. Spring weather is a fickle beast. Temperatures can soar up to 80 degrees and drop well below freezing in a matter of hours. Just because it’s warm enough to go swimming doesn’t mean it’s time to unpack to snow gear. Hail season will take its toll in the hail-belt (Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas and Missouri), and flood season will cause dangers across the country. Heavy rains and melting snow make travel especially dangerous for drivers. Wet roads greatly reduce traction and control, as well as increase braking distance. In fact, wet roads are the cause of 75% of weather-related crashes each year.