It’s not uncommon for people to consider winter to be the most dangerous time of the year when it comes to driving, especially for those that get snow or icy precipitation. But as the weather gets warmer and winter turns to spring, there are numerous hazards that drivers need to be aware of before venturing out onto the roads. Read on for a closer look at some of these new, and perhaps unexpected, hazards and how to avoid them.
• Pedestrians & Cyclists. With warm weather comes people who want to get out and stretch their legs a bit. Some towns and cities are well-equipped for pedestrians and cyclists to safely share the roads: bike lanes, sidewalks, roadside greenways, etc. Others lack the infrastructure to accommodate everyone. It’s in these areas that it’s most important to stay alert and keep an eye on your surroundings as a driver.
• Construction. Spring and summer are peak construction seasons. Orange traffic cones and high-visibility safety vests will become a more common sight as you travel, especially on the highways. Be sure to pay close attention to the flow of traffic, and watch out for workers moving in and around the site.
• Tire Blowouts. Warm temperatures cause air to expand. So if your tires were well-inflated during the cool seasons, then they may just reach a bursting point as the weather gets warmer. Avoid sudden blowouts by releasing some of the air from your tires and relieving the pressure.
• Heavy Rain. Frequent rain showers are not uncommon in the spring and the summer. But rain showers can turn into full-blown thunderstorms in the blink of an eye. If you’re on the road when a storm pops up, use your windshield wipers and drive well below the speed limit. Stop and move off the side of the road if it’s too dangerous.
• Wild Animals. With the onset of spring, you’re likely to see more wild animals. Be careful with larger animals like deer, as they may cross the road with very little warning.
• Traffic. Summer is a time for many folks to get out of their house and go on vacation. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, roughly 91% of summer trips are in personal vehicles such as a car. This sudden influx of travel can make traffic even more congested than usual. Be careful on the roads with so many other drivers out and about.
If you ever find yourself in an automobile accident involving one of these hazards, contact an attorney as soon as possible. Our team here at Wayne Hardee Law can help you sort through the details of the case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
