Eight Springtime Safe Driving Tips

Spring is here! While many people breathe a sigh of relief knowing winter weather won’t rear its head for another year, spring weather can also pose a threat to motorists. Even as ice and snow melts away, don’t let your guard down.

Here are some tips to keep you and your passengers safe on the roads this spring.

Drive in the Middle Lanes When It Rains

Did you know that roads are most slippery when it first begins to rain? This is caused by rainwater mixing with contaminants on the road, such as oil and grease. A wet road can be just as slick and dangerous as an icy one, and you can easily hydroplane, losing contact with the road – similar to hitting ice. As water tends to puddle in the outside lanes, it’s best to drive in the center lane if possible during and after a rainstorm.

Slow Down and Increase Your Following Distance

Another tip for those springtime showers is to adhere to the speed limit and slow down slightly, going with the flow of traffic. You should also increase the distance between you and the vehicle you’re following to allow for proper braking. Three seconds is the standard safe distance, but during rainy weather, you’ll want to increase this to eight seconds. Choose a fixed point (like a road sign or a building) that is even with the car in front of you. If you reach that same fixed point before you can count to three (eight seconds during or after a rainstorm), you’re driving too close.

Look Out for Potholes!

Extreme winter weather takes a toll on our roadways, creating large potholes when the ground thaws out in spring. The spring rain can then fill these pesky divots with water, making them difficult to see. Avoid them if you can, but never swerve to avoid a pothole. It’s better to just slow down before rolling over a pothole compared to braking harshly or swerving. Potholes are one of the most common culprits for punctured tires, bent rims, suspension damage, and more.

Inspect Your Tires for Tread & Proper Air Pressure

Adequate tire tread is important for wet weather driving, with the tire tread moving the water away from the tires. The less tread, the less traction to drive safe in rainy springtime weather. Additionally, tires lose air due to the cold temperatures of the winter months, causing tires to be underinflated.

Watch for Pedestrians on the Move

With warmer weather quickly approaching, more people are heading outdoors for walking, jogging, bicycling, and other activities. Be even more mindful of pedestrians and slow down, especially in neighborhoods and residential areas where children may also be at play. Furthermore, pay extra attention at crosswalks where pedestrians have the right of way with the walk signal.

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