Few people are sad to leave the icy roads, snow shovels and heavy coats of winter behind. However, while enjoying sunny, warmer weather, it is important to be aware of these spring crash risks and how to avoid them.
Our Flint-area car crash lawyers see a lot of crashes this time of year. Fortunately, most springtime collisions can be prevented simply by being aware of the risks.
If you get injured by the negligence of another driver, you may be eligible to seek compensation in addition to your no-fault benefits. Contact our law firm anytime, night or day, to learn more. There is zero cost for an initial consultation, so there is no risk in learning about your legal options.
What Are the Most Dangerous Spring Crash Risks?
The very things that make spring most enjoyable can also create certain dangers on the road. Some of those dangers include:
- Spring showers and heavy rainstorms: While leaving winter snow behind, spring typically brings a lot of rainstorms. Even light showers cause oils to release and mix into the rain on the surface of the roads, making them slicker. Rain also causes road glare, which can make it harder for drivers to see.
- Sun glare: Sunshine is great, but on the road it can be deadly. Certain times of day are especially dangerous. Drivers may have a tough time seeing the road, any lane markings and other vehicles. Sometimes, sun glare can be bad enough to cause temporary blindness. Many drivers may react to this, causing them to swerve.
- Potholes: Springtime always reveals new potholes, some of which are deep and dangerous. In addition to being a crash risk, potholes can also cause extensive damage to your vehicle. It is not always possible to avoid a pothole, especially if it is hidden by rainwater or sun glare.
- More pedestrians, bikers and motorcyclists: Spring weather recharges most of us, which means there will be more pedestrians and bikers sharing the roads. Motorcyclists also get back on the road in springtime. Drivers need to be aware of their blind spots and carefully check before changing lanes and turning. Residential and school areas are especially high risk as there are typically more children may be about.
- Animals darting into the road: Deer and other animals coming out of hibernation may be more likely to dart into the road unexpectedly. In areas where you are more likely to see them, it is a good idea to remain watchful and on high alert.
Steps You Can Take To Avoid Dangerous Spring Crash Risks
There are several steps drivers can take to avoid some spring crash risks and prepare for others that may be unexpected.
Tips for driving more safely this spring include:
Being Sure to Properly Maintain Your Car
All drivers are responsible for maintaining their car. If poor maintenance leads to a crash, you could be held liable for the damages.
After winter, you may need to change from snow tires to tires that work better in warmer and rainy weather. Make sure the tires have a good tread and are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Other important tire maintenance to check after winter includes:
- Windshield wipers and refilling your windshield cleaning fluid
- Checking your oil and getting any regular service done on your car
- Having your brakes, belts and hoses checked
- Replacing any tail, brake or headlights
Learning How to Drive Safer in the Rain
Some people prefer to stay home until the weather clears. However, that is not always possible. Here are some wet weather driving tips to know about:
- Allow more time to travel
- Avoid roads, especially secondary roads that are prone to flooding
- If you see a pool of water, do not drive through it. Puddles may be hiding deep potholes, and could also cause you to swerve or your car to stall
- Avoid road shoulders, as rainwater generally pools there and increases your risk of hydroplaning
- Drive slower than the recommended speed limit
- Leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of yours
Avoiding Animals in the Road
It is not always possible to see a domestic or wild animal that darts into the roadway. However, being on high alert for domestic animals in residential areas may make it more likely to avoid them. Wild animals, such as deer, are more likely to wander onto roadways at dusk. Sometimes, there is more than one. Going slower and being especially watchful in high-risk areas can help you to avoid hitting them. If it is not possible to avoid hitting them, it is better to brake in a straight line than to risk hitting another car by swerving.
Dealing With Sun Glare
Sun glare is at its worst at certain times of the day, such as in the morning and evening when driving to and from work. That said, there are some preventative measures you can take if you cannot avoid driving at those times:
- Make sure you keep your windshield clean and dry (inside and out)
- Invest in polarizing sunglasses to help reduce road glare
- Use your car’s sun visor to help block out at least some of the sun
- Take a different route where you will not have to drive into direct sunlight
- Reduce your speed and keep more distance between you and other vehicles
- If nothing else helps, find a safe place to pull over and wait for the sun’s position to change
Injured in a Car Crash? Call Our Firm for Legal Help Today
Spring crash risks are mostly avoidable. However, if another driver’s negligence causes you harm in a crash you did not cause, our law firm is prepared to help. Learn about your legal options, including how to pursue your no-fault claim and whether you may be eligible for excess damages.
Jay Trucks has a history of helping crash victims like you. We have recovered millions to help clients recover their medical costs and other losses. Read what our clients say about our services and schedule your free case review today.
