Spring is here, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that we are clear from dangerous road conditions.
During the winter, we know that icy roads can cause imminent danger and that there is a high risk of having an accident when the road is extremely slippery. Yet, many of us might forget that spring can bring driving conditions that are just as hazardous.
Spring time brings torrential storms and rain, and with it, wet and treacherous roads that are full of all sorts of debris. While drivers may feel confident and safe behind the wheel, it’s important to always remain diligent and refrain from being over confident. This is especially important as the National Center for Environmental Information (NCEI) noted that Texas saw “torrential local downpours and historical flooding events” in the spring of 2016.
At J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys, we want you to be as safe as possible when traveling on the road, whether it be alone or with loved ones. Continue reading for some useful tips and information on how you can keep yourself and your passengers safe this spring.
Water isn’t always a lifesaver.
For many of us, driving in the rain can be a challenge, and especially frightening when it is pouring down to the point of little to zero visibility. It also brings high risks of flooding, which is extremely dangerous to be driving in.
Yet, with the right tips, you can feel at ease on the road as you travel towards your destination.
- Check your tires on a regular basis to make sure they are not worn out and have plenty of tread. Tread that is worn out offers less grip and a higher potential to slip during heavy rainfall. Replace tires as needed and save yourself from a potential accident.
- If traveling under treacherous weather, pull over and seek shelter or find a safe place to park – it is better to be safe than sorry.
- Pouring rain can lead to hazardous conditions such as flooding, so in the event of a flood watch/warning, take caution and stay off the roads. According to the National Weather Service, in the year 2015 Texas, had one of the highest fatality rates due to flooding while driving.
- Replace your windshield wipers and make sure they are functioning as they should be. It is recommended that they are replaced every year.
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Caution: Road Work Ahead
Spring time is usually the startup of many construction projects. Barrels, cones, blockades and many other types of hazards, can be difficult to maneuver around, especially in areas of high traffic. Consider the following safety tips to keep your, your passengers, and construction workers safe:
- Stay aware and keep an eye out for construction zones. There are usually precautionary signs that work is being done ahead such as orange signage, barrels, cones and construction workers flagging down traffic.
- Speed limits change in areas of construction, make sure to keep a close eye out on how fast you should be going. Traffic fines usually double up in such areas. Speeding in construction zones can cause unwanted accidents that can leave not only you and your loved ones hurt, but others as well.
- Watch out for uneven pavement, during construction, roads can be left rough and slanted. Always keep your hands on the wheel and drive at safe speeds.
- Keep your distance between vehicles, don’t tailgate as drivers can break suddenly, at any given moments.
Share the Road.
With warmer weather comes more individuals taking out their motorcycles and bicycles to enjoy the beautiful sun and blooming flowers. It is imperative to keep those around you in mind and to stay aware of their presence.
- Pay close attention to bike lanes. If there are bicyclists in the lanes, give them the extra space they need to avoid any accidents.
- Keep your distance from motorcyclists; same safety rules apply to them while on the roads.
- Signaling for cyclists is important. Keep a close eye and respect the rules of the road, we all want to have a safe experience while driving.
Keeping these driving tips in mind can help you and others avoid any potentially dangerous accidents from occurring.
