That first 50-degree day after months of freezing temperatures just feels different, doesn’t it? We all feel that surge of excitement when winter finally loosens its grip and those thermometers start climbing out of the 20s into the 50s and 60s. Suddenly, you’re rolling down your car windows, cranking up the music, and feeling free from the shackles of winter weather.
But this newfound spring freedom shouldn’t mean you take your foot off the gas when it comes to safe driving habits. In fact, spring brings a surprising uptick in car accidents on our roads. There are plenty of reasons why this happens, and we’ll show you how you can keep yourself safe during this seasonal transition.
More Drivers, More Problems
When the weather warms up, more people hit the road. It’s that simple. After being cooped up all winter, everyone’s eager to get out and about. This traffic surge means more vehicles sharing the same space, raising your accident risk significantly.
Weekend drives to shake off winter blues become popular again. Motorcycle enthusiasts dust off their bikes and return to the highway, and students flood the roads during spring break. All this extra activity creates a perfect storm for potential collisions.
Your daily commute might suddenly feel more chaotic as construction season kicks into high gear, too. Work zones pop up overnight, narrowing lanes and changing traffic patterns. These sudden road changes catch many drivers off guard, especially when they’re already adjusting to sharing space with more vehicles.
Unpredictable Weather Conditions Create Hazards
Spring weather plays tricks on drivers. One day, it’s sunny and 65; the next, you’re dealing with snow flurries. This weather whiplash creates dangerous driving conditions that your winter-driving brain might not be ready for.
Rain falls more frequently in spring, making roads slick and reducing visibility. After months of dry winter air, even light rain can bring oils to the surface of the road, creating surprisingly slippery conditions. Your tires, possibly still set for winter driving, might not handle these changes well.
Fog is another spring special that limits how far ahead you can see. Morning fog can roll in thick, especially near bodies of water, hiding hazards until you’re right on top of them. This reduced visibility gives you less time to react to obstacles, pedestrians, or sudden traffic stops.
Spring Distractions Divide Your Attention
There’s something about spring that divides your attention behind the wheel. You might find yourself gazing at blooming trees or searching for the source of that new bird song instead of watching the road. Distracted driving spikes this time of year. You’re more likely to roll down windows, fiddle with music controls, or even snap quick photos of the scenery. Each time your eyes leave the road — even for two seconds — you’ve essentially driven blind for that period.
Spring break brings particular risks, with more young drivers on unfamiliar roads. Some make poor choices involving alcoholic beverages, leading to cases of driving under the influence. Spring celebrations can turn tragic when alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time.
Daylight Saving Time Can Also Have an Effect
When we spring forward for daylight saving time, we all lose an hour of sleep. This seemingly small change throws off your biological clock more than you might realize. Research shows car accidents jump by about 6% in the days following the time change. Sleep deprivation affects your reaction time almost as much as alcohol. Driving with too little rest can be as dangerous as driving after having a drink.
Your body needs time to adjust to this shift. Until it does, you might experience increased fatigue during your morning commute or fight drowsiness even when you’re normally alert. Drowsy driving leads to slower reaction times and poor decision-making.
New Life On The Move
Spring brings everyone outside, and we’re not talking about drivers. Pedestrians, cyclists, and wildlife all become more active as temperatures rise. Animals become especially active during spring as mating season begins for many species. Deer, which you might think are only a fall hazard, actually move more in spring, too. They’ll dart across highways without warning, giving you little time to react.
When the weather improves, more people walk and bike. Kids play outside again, sometimes near streets or in neighborhoods. These increased pedestrian activities require extra vigilance, especially when turning or backing up a vehicle.
Spring Driving Safety Tips to Protect Yourself
You can significantly cut your spring accident risk by making a few simple adjustments to your driving habits. First, slow down! A small speed reduction gives you precious extra seconds to react to unexpected situations. Those speed limit signs are safety guidelines, and there is a reason. Also, make sure you get your vehicle ready for the season. Have a mechanic check your brakes, tires, wipers, and fluids. Winter takes a toll on vehicles, and worn components fail when you need them most. Pay special attention to your tire pressure, which likely changes during winter’s temperature swings.
We’re Here If You Need Us
No one wants to kick off their spring with a car accident, but sometimes even the most careful drivers find themselves involved in a collision. If you’ve been hurt, Liever, Hyman & Potter, P.C. can help you get back on track. Our car accident injury attorneys know how to protect your finances and your life during this stressful time.
A crash can cause serious injury and heartache, but you don’t have to face insurance companies and medical bills without legal support. Speak with us today if you’ve been involved in a car accident in the spring, fall, or any season.