When you think of dangerous road conditions, it's easy to assume that they only exist in the winter season. However, spring brings along its own set of road hazards to be cautious of. While many springtime accidents are caused by poor seasonal driving conditions, there are many things you can do to keep safe on the road this spring.
Poor Weather Conditions
The snow may be gone, but spring's unpredictable weather conditions are just as capable of impacting your ability to drive safely. You know what they say: April showers bring May flowers. But they also bring slippery, wet pavement. Rainy conditions and wet pavement lead to as many as 8 times more accidents than snowy or icy conditions.
Rain showers and fog are a fairly common occurrence during the spring season. As a result, roadways can become slippery and wet pavement can cause your vehicle to hydroplane. Severe rainstorms can also make it difficult to see your surroundings while driving. Fog can also make it difficult to see other cars, traffic lights, or road hazards. Make sure to take extra caution when driving in rainy or foggy weather to protect yourself and others.
Severe winds are another weather condition that comes along with spring driving. Strong winds can make it difficult to control your vehicle and cause blowing objects or debris to cross your path on the road and reduce visibility. Keep alert of your surroundings when driving in windy conditions and ensure you always have control of your vehicle.
It is crucial to take extra caution when poor spring weather conditions are present, whether that means slowing down, putting your hazard lights on, or even pulling over until it's safe to continue driving. Ensure your vehicle is well equipped to handle spring weather by testing your windshield wipers, vehicle lights, and tires to confirm that they’re all functioning properly.
Wild Animals
There are over 45,000 non-fatal collisions with wildlife each year. The spring season brings many wild animals out of hibernation and as a result wildlife may end up crossing your path on the road. As highway networks expand and speed increases, wildlife collisions have grown to be a major concern across Canadian roads.
Always be aware of your surroundings when driving and look out for wildlife that may be crossing or on the outskirts of the road. Take extra caution when driving in wooded areas or areas with wildlife road signage and keep in mind that some animals, such as deer, are most active at dusk when it’s harder to spot them on the roads.
Roadway Hazards
The snow, ice, and plows of winter can leave behind large potholes that can cause damage to your vehicle. These potholes create an uneven road surface that can impact your vehicle’s wheels, suspension and alignment.
Although there’s no single way to avoid potholes, ensure you’re keeping a close eye on the road and leaving ample space between you and the car in front of you. Avoid swerving to dodge a pothole as this could lead to a more dangerous situation. Instead, gently brake to minimize the impact of a pothole on your vehicle.
Cyclists, Motorcyclists & Pedestrians
With the warmer weather comes more cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians on the move. Safely sharing the road with them is crucial to ensure everyone stays safe. Make sure to give ample space between your vehicle and other traffic as you pass or follow them. Additionally, keep an extra careful eye on pedestrians at crosswalks or in places without sidewalks. Staying alert, especially in poorly lit or unfavourable weather conditions, is essential in keeping everyone on the road safe this season.
Are You Protected?
Even if you take all the necessary precautions, spring accidents can still happen. It’s important to know who you can turn to in the event of a car accident to ensure your rights are protected. A personal injury lawyer can help you receive proper compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can have on you and your loved ones.
The Beckett team of lawyers has ample experience in the practice area of motor vehicle collisions. If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of a car accident, you can be sure that we will be by your side every step of the way and fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us today for your free evaluation!
Published on May 7, 2021
