As the days start drawing out and the temperature becomes a little milder, driving conditions will change too. Before you jump into your car to enjoy the spring season, it’s important to make yourself aware of the dangers of spring driving so that you don’t end up in a potentially hazardous situation.
McPartland & Sons Solicitors will address some of the most important points to remember to ensure you and your family arrive safely. These include:
Potholes
Potholes that form during winter months can damage your vehicle and cause accidents. Winter weather takes a toll on our roadways, creating large potholes. Heavy rain can fill them with water making them difficult to see. These potholes can damage your car leading to expensive repairs. Damages can include:
- Punctured tires
- Bent rims
- Suspension damage
- Poor alignment
- Exhaust system damage
Keep a safe following distance in case the driver in front of you reacts. Never swerve to avoid a pothole. This can put you and your family in a more dangerous situation. Gently brake before it if you can.
Sun glare
Driving can be hard on the eyes at any time of the year, but during spring months, when the sun is out, there’s also an increased amount of sun glare coming off the road and other vehicles. This can be particularly hazardous during the early morning and late evening. It is worthwhile investing in a good pair of polarized sunglasses to cut down on glare. The sun’s rays can cause a lot of accidents, but you can reduce the effect by keeping your windscreen nice and clean, and by replacing worn or damaged windscreen wipers.
Increased motorcycles and bicyclists
The warm sun always gets people out of their houses and because there are far more individuals going for walks and riding their bikes, drivers need to be mindful of their surroundings. Pedestrian and cycling accidents can be very serious, so make sure to slow down when travelling through residential areas. Careful driving in neighbourhoods is necessary as more children will be out playing and could run into the roads without warning.
Wildlife activity
This is especially true in rural areas, meaning that you need to pay more attention to animals on the move. Animal activity increases during the spring so you need to be alert particularly during dusk and dawn when farmers are moving animals between fields etc.
Frequent rainstorms
Standing water makes the roads slick in Northern Ireland and reduce visibility. A slippery road reduces traction and creases the chances of you hydroplaning. The key is to remain vigilant and keep a larger distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you whilst driving at a lower speed.
McPartland & Sons solicitors have specialists standing by to help answer any of your questions regarding driving safely. Contact us to find out how we can help.
Related Blogs:Road Traffic Accident Claims and Compensation NI – Your Guide
Personal Injury Claims