Each season brings with it driving challenges, and spring is no exception. After dealing with the annoyances of winter, the coming of spring is a welcome event on the calendar. We don’t worry much about winter here in Florida, but spring driving can present challenges for us as the roads present different difficulties than we may be expecting. You should always execute defensive driving skills and remain alert while behind the wheel of your car or truck. By the time spring rolls around, drivers must be even more careful when driving. Many of the most common hazards that pose problems for even the most diligent driver happen during spring. Here are a few of those dangers our Naples personal injury attorneys want you to watch out for:
- Roadway Damage: Weather conditions gradually break down the integrity of road materials, causing cracks, potholes, and permanent water slicks. Spring is known for heavy rains, so it can be challenging to spot roadway issues. When there are pockets of water, slick areas, or cracks, it’s easier to lose control of your vehicle, especially at higher speeds.
- Glare: While spring is known for late-season showers, it’s also when we start to enjoy more sunny days. With sunny days comes glare from both inside and outside of your car. On a bright and sunny day, sunshine through your windshield can cause a glare from the glass that is blinding. You also have to worry about the sun interacting with other glass surfaces in your vehicle, like phones and tablets. Glare is a leading factor in automobile accidents during early morning and sunset.
- Cyclists: While it doesn’t get too cold in Florida, riding your bike for long sessions during the winter can be uncomfortable. So, as soon as the weather permits, you should expect to see an increase in motorcycles and bikes sharing the roadway. More bikes and motorcycles mean more traffic and a greater potential for accidents. It’s easy to miss a biker or motorcyclist when changing lanes, so it’s important to remember the rules of sharing the road with cyclists.
- Kids & Pets: Yes, kids play in the winter, and people walk their dogs year-round. Once the weather is nice outside, people come outdoors to play, and many of those people are kids. Additionally, pets are often outdoors more when people spend time outside. Pay closer attention when driving through residential areas because you may need to brake immediately or swerve to avoid those who may enter the road without knowing the danger.
- Other Animals: If you live outside the city in a more rural area, you will need to pay close attention to other activities on the road from wildlife. Spring is the mating season for many animals, and they are also coming out in search of food after hiding out during the winter months. There is a more dangerous situation during evening hours when it’s harder to see animals congregating on the side of the road or in the easement. Animals can dart out into the street and cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles or strike other vehicles trying to avoid animals.
- Rainy Days: Spring is known for rainy days. All those beautiful flowers associated with spring need rain showers to pop up, but rainy days mean slick roadways. It can be harder to see when it’s rainy and gloomy outside. Long driving stints can lead to faster eye fatigue and strain. The best way to combat this problem is by ensuring your vehicle is ready for the challenge. Have you checked your windshield wipers? Do you have good tires? Have you checked your headlights? Ensuring your vehicle is prepared for rainy day weather is just as important as how you drive in these unfavorable conditions.
Florida Accident Attorney
Automobile accidents can be emotionally devastating and damaging to you and your property. When you’re driving, it’s essential to make smart choices when you’re behind the wheel and give yourself time when traveling. If you’re involved in an automobile crash, our experienced Florida accident attorneys at Pittman Law Firm, P.L. can help determine if legal action is necessary. Call us today at (239) 603-6913 to schedule a consultation and case review.