It’s a perfect spring day; 75 degrees, bright blue sky and nothing but you, your car and the open road. With the windows down and the warm breeze blowing, you’re tempted to put the pedal to the metal and cruise forever, but give it some thought first. In addition to risking a costly speeding ticket, reckless driving increases the probability that you will be involved in a traffic accident.
Even if you can resist the “need for speed,” spring and summer present unique challenges for the most responsible drivers among us. To avoid getting in a traffic accident this season, keep the following warm-weather risks and hazards in mind:
Potholes all around
Have you ever heard the saying, “There are four seasons: fall, winter, spring and roadwork?” When the roads warm up after the cold winter, Hampton Roads residents are sure to encounter plenty of potholes on both the interstates and the main roads. Hitting a pothole the wrong way can not only damage your tires, but also cause you to have a blowout, which endangers you and the drivers around you. Always scan the road ahead of you for potholes and (safely) maneuver to a smoother part of the road when you spot a potential danger.
The sun in your eyes
As it stays light out longer, the sun on your morning and evening commute can sometimes be a nuisance and a dangerous one at that. When it hits a certain point in the sky the sun can blind drivers, especially those with light-colored eyes. Don’t forget your sunglasses!
Rain
Blame it on the rain. The greater number of bad weather days during the warmer months increases the likelihood of traffic accidents. When driving in the rain, be sure to reduce your speed, stay toward the center lane on the highway to avoid hydroplaning, and never drive through high water. Additionally, it is a great time of year to double check that your windshield wipers are working properly, replenish your wiper fluid, and inspect your tires for signs of wear. A poorly maintained vehicle won’t stand up to a torrential downpour. For more tips on driving in the rain and avoiding traffic accidents, click here.
More young drivers
Tis the season when new teenage drivers are issued their licenses and are free to hit the roads unaccompanied by their parents. Studies show that young drivers, because of overconfidence and inexperience, are especially prone to mistakes that can cause serious traffic accidents. Be a defensive driver and if you have new drivers under the age of 18 in your family, make sure they obey all city driving curfew laws (Find these for Chesapeake and Norfolk, and Virginia Beach)
Pedestrians and Cyclists
Now that the weather is getting warmer, more people will choose to walk or ride their bikes instead of drive. Stay on the lookout for pedestrians, yield at all crosswalks and share the road with cyclists.
Each season brings its own unique traffic risks. When you do what you can to avoid the possible spring and summer pitfalls, you can freely bask in the sun, surf and sand without costly traffic accidents.
If you do get in an automobile accident and need legal counsel, don’t hesitate to call the experienced traffic accident lawyers at Decker Law Firm. Night or day, we are here to help.
