Despite the fact that the weather may sometimes suggest otherwise, spring has sprung! It’s time to make some tweaks to your vehicles, and you driving habits.
We’ve compiled a list that will help you enjoy spring safely.
- Don’t jump into taking your winter tires off too early. Leave them on until the ambient temperature is maintaining itself over 7° Celsius.
- We may still experience snowfall, and the warm spring sun melts the snow near the road. This can cause the melt to re-freeze, creating dangerous ice patches. If you see a road that appears wet and the temperature has dropped, slow down and expect to experience ice.
- As soon as the weather begins to warm, cyclists and motorcyclists get back on the road. So, make sure that you’re keeping your eyes peeled for these users of the road.
- If you are a cyclist or a motorcyclist then you need to ensure you are visible to truckers, as well as motorists. For cyclists, wear a safety vest or a brightly coloured jacket. Make sure you stay right, ride in a single file line, and use lights when riding at night.
- Warmer weather also drives children outside. So, when you’re driving in school zones and residential areas you should slow down and be aware of children playing, or coming from between parked cars. Children don’t always pay attention to traffic while they’re playing, they get caught up in play and are easily distracted. Also, be aware of teens who are glued to their phones and aren’t looking out for traffic.
- It’s the time of the year when the temperatures fluctuate wildly, bringing us the cycles of freeze-thaw. This combination often results it potholes. Ensure that you stay back from vehicles in front of your, and remain focused on your driving so you can spot potholes in advance. It’s critical to keep your vision high, don’t get stuck looking downward, use quick glances.
- Spring can wreak havoc on gravel. Shoulders are often softer due to melting water, and along with winter erosion, it’s common for gullies to form. So, ensure you take extra care when you’re pulling off of the road. Steer smoothly to maintain control, and never jerk the wheel.
- There are many animals who spend the winter hibernating. Now that spring has sprung they are back on the move, and in full forage mode as they search for food. You should be prepared for animals running in the road, this will prevent their death, as well as vehicle damage. If you’re driving in a rural area, keep your speed down. If you’re unsure of your skills, it is safer to hit a smaller animal than risk your live taking evasive actions. Many motorists have been killed by trying to avoid hitting small animals.
The leading cause of road traffic accidents is driver distraction. You need to remain focused on your task. Choose your music before you set off, put your phone down, and stay safe.