It’s springtime, and you may assume that better spring weather means safer driving conditions. After all, the snow and ice of winter are nowhere in sight. But unfortunately, that is not always the case. As a car accident attorney in TN for over 30 years, I know car accidents can happen at any time of year. April showers may bring May flowers, but they also bring a whole new set of risks on the road — and new precautions to follow.
Here are some spring driving dangers to watch out for and how to stay safe behind the wheel this season.
Top Springtime Driving Hazards
- Rain and floods. This time of year is notorious for a lot of rain. Wet roads and slippery conditions increase the risk of an accident. When it rains, it reduces the traction of your car and increases the stopping distance. Flooding may also occur, creating large puddles and causing hydroplaning. These are all a recipe for a potential fender-bender, or serious collision.
- Dangerous glare from sunny weather. Many of us have been blinded by the sun at some point while driving. With daylight savings bringing longer days, the possibility of a little sunshine doing serious damage is much higher. Sun glare is actually a leading factor in thousands of accidents each year.
- Less cautious drivers. Most of us are familiar with the dangers of driving in winter weather, and we change our habits accordingly. In springtime, people aren’t as cautious. But with more regular rainfall and oil slicks, there’s plenty of reasons to exercise the same vigilance behind the wheel as you would in winter weather.
- When the snow melts, the potholes come out. In colder months potholes tend to be covered by snow and ice. Which means once warmer weather comes, those deep hazardous holes are exposed once again. This can not only cause car accidents, but damage to your vehicle. Even worse, springtime rain can make it harder to see potholes before it’s too late.
How to Stay Safe and Avoid a Car Accident.
- Slow down. When there’s rain or hail, slow down and allow extra stopping distance.
- Be extra cautious at sunrise and sunset. Drivers need to pay extra attention, knowing that sunrise and sunset will bring the greatest risk of dangerous glare and temporary sun blindness.
- Check your lights before you drive. Heavy springtime rains affect driving visibility, so make sure all the lights — headlights, taillights, backup lights, turn signals, parking lights, and brake lights — are in good working condition.
- Replace your wiper blades. There’s nothing like being in a downpour and realizing your wiper blades aren’t working properly. Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition before you drive.
- Watch out for animals. Humans are not the only ones who like to go for a spring stroll. Now that winter’s over, many more animals are on the road. They are most active during dawn and dusk, so drive with extra caution and scan the road.
If you’ve been in an accident, speak to an experienced car accident attorney TN trusts for FREE.
My hope is that extra safety measures like the ones I’ve suggested here will prevent avoidable accidents and injuries — not only during springtime, but throughout the year. However, if you’ve been the victim of an accident – any time of the year – call us today at 901-327-1212 or contact us online for a FREE consultation – no strings attached.
At Darrell Castle & Associates, we understand the physical and emotional toll of a car accident. Our experienced team of attorneys are here to discuss your options, answer all of your questions, and help you get the compensation you deserve so you can get back to enjoying springtime with your family and community. Give us a call today.