Congratulations Chris Mallett for being our next Safe Driver of 2024!
Winter often gets all the attention for hazardous road conditions, but spring driving has safety hazards of its own. Here are ten spring driving safety tips to help reduce your risk.
1 – Keep an eye out for potholes. Roads take a beating through the winter and that means more potholes. Avoid potholes whenever safely possible but be aware of other traffic and never go into another lane of travel. If you can’t avoid one, slow down and release the brakes as you pass over it to minimize the impact.
2 – Check tire pressure. Cold winter temperatures often result in lost tire pressure.
3 – Respect work zones. Springtime means construction crews will be out in force to fix winter wear and tear, and in many areas they’re still working on clean-up from the ice storms in February. Obey posted speed limits and be extra vigilant of the flaggers, construction vehicles, and others who may not be paying attention.
4 – Avoid puddles. Puddles can cause you to hydroplane and they hide hazards underneath, like potholes, which can damage your vehicle or cause you to lose control.
5 – Check your wiper blades. Wiper blades take a beating with the ice and snow. Replace them if they’re not properly clearing your windshield to be prepared for the spring rain.
6 – Pay attention to medication side effects. With spring flowers comes spring allergies. Be aware of the side effects of your allergy medication to ensure that you aren’t driving drowsy.
7 – Be aware of animals. Animals become more active during warmer weather. Pay special attention around dawn and dusk and maintain a speed that will allow you to safely stop very quickly if needed.
8 – Watch for pedestrians, motorcycles, and cyclists. As temperatures begin to rise people are going to do the things they love to do but haven’t been able to do them last few months. More people will be out walking, riding motorcycles, and cycling, make sure you give them room on the road.
9 – Slow down during rain showers. According to AAA, wet pavement contributes to nearly 1.2 million traffic accidents each year. Slow down, give extra space between you and the car ahead of you, turn on your headlights, and avoid hard braking.
10 – Prepare for sun glare. Yes, that yellow ball in the sky that we haven’t seen much of over the last few months is going to be shining bright. Make sure your sun visor works and have sunglasses handy.
-Rian Martinsen, Director of Safety