Although the nationwide pandemic has many of us sheltering in place, spring can still be a good time for a road trip or leisurely drive. The weather is usually temperate and most people look forward to getting outside to enjoy the warmer weather.
Drivers who believe there are less hazards on springtime roads are mistaken. Although the sun may be shining and snow has melted, there are still many road hazards to be wary of during the spring.
What Should I be Aware of While Driving During Spring?
Some springtime road hazards include:
- Potholes: Even though we did not experience any significant snow over the winter, potholes can still form due to cold and wet weather. Additionally, if salt was distributed onto the road due to an expected snow storm, this can contribute to pothole formation.
- Increased motorcycles and bicyclists on the road: Bicyclists and motorcyclists relish in the warmer weather and they will come out in many numbers, especially on back country roads on the weekends. Drivers should be aware of these cyclists and keep a safe following distance. Bicyclists who practice safe biking will provide hand signals to let drivers know if they are turning or making an unexpected entrance into the middle of the roadway. Drivers should also yield to the cyclists.
- Rainstorms: Rain showers are often plentiful during spring. Although there is less likely to be ice and snow, excessive water on the roadways can also produce hazards, such as a hydroplaning, and rain can produce visibility problems.
- Sun glare: Spring weather can also produce sun glare that is not expected during a morning or evening commute. This is one of the leading causes of car accidents; therefore, drivers should have a go-to pair of polarized sunglasses readily available in the car to assist in these circumstances. If you can, change your route to avoid sun glare, it may help you avoid a car accident.
- Leftover salt and sand: Occasionally, drivers may run into leftover piles of salt and sand on the roadways, even after winter weather has subsided. This can cause tires to lose traction, and can lead to you suddenly braking or accelerating.
- Flooded roads: Often, drivers mistakenly believe that flooded roadways are not that deep or that there are not currents in the water. This error in judgement can create an extremely dangerous situation. It is always best to avoid flooded roadways, even if it looks like there are only a few inches of water. Sometimes, flooded roads could be much deeper than expected, and the water could rise unexpectedly.
Some car accidents are unavoidable due to another driver’s negligence. If you are involved in a car accident, contact an experienced lawyer immediately to explore your legal options.
Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Can Assist in Your Springtime Car Accident Case
Our Delaware County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. will help you find the evidence you need for a successful car accident claim. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 610-565-3701. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve injured car accident victims throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.