Spring is right around the corner and when the seasons change, so do the road conditions. Here are the top spring driving tips to keep you safe on the road.
1. Rain, Rain Go Away – While April showers bring May flowers, wet roads can be as slick as icy ones. It can also cause your car to hydroplane, with the possibility of losing control of your vehicle.
Extra Tip – Stay in the middle lanes where the rainwater won’t pool, as water tends to pool in the outside ones, replace your windshield wipers at least once a year and avoid flooded roads.
2. Potholes Are Prevalent – The spring thaw can cause dangerous potholes. Avoid them if you can, otherwise, slow down, and release the brake before impact. Braking causes your tire to slam into the edge of the pothole with more force than if you’re rolling over the hole.
3. Spring Vehicle Maintenance – Odds are it’s time to replace your windshield wipers and ensure your tires are properly inflated to reduce damage from potholes and other road hazards.
Extra Tip – Changing your car’s air filter can help to minimize the amount of dust or pollen that enters your vehicle and help with allergies.
4. Pedestrian Crossing – As soon as it stays lighter later, walkers and joggers, parents with strollers, people taking dogs for a walk and bicyclists will be out and about, so be alert and stay focused around intersections and in residential communities.
5. Watch For Animals On The Go – Wildlife activity increases during the spring. For many, this is also baby season and the time when vehicles accidentally injure and orphan millions of animals, the evidence of which is sadly popping up all over. Don’t forget about household pets who love the smell of spring and run out unexpectedly. The best advice: be patient, don’t tailgate and keep distance between you and vehicles ahead to give them some stopping time.
Extra Tip: On multi-lane roads consider keeping to the center lane to give wildlife maximum distance, especially during dusk and dawn.
6. Motorcycles Hit The Road – Motorcycle enthusiasts are donning their leathers and heading back out onto the highway. Motorcycles accelerate quickly and occupy much less space in your field of view. So, it often feels like they “came out of nowhere.” Watch your blind spots, double check your mirrors and give riders extra space. It’s best to use more caution when driving near motorcycles as a biker is more vulnerable if they get into an accident.
As a reminder for spring and every season of the year, stay alert. Put cell phones away and avoid other driving distractions.
International AutoSource
As the vehicle experts for relocating international expatriates for over 25 years, International AutoSource (IAS) offers flexible vehicle solutions to finance, lease or rent a vehicle in the US without a local credit history. Our factory-backed financing programs for foreign executives, healthcare workers, business professionals, students, teachers and the diplomatic community featuring low rates and are designed to get expats approved quickly and easily. Expats can shop top-selling vehicles from Audi, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jeep, Lincoln, Nissan, Ram, Toyota, Volkswagen and many more. Get tips and learn what to expect to make your move as seamless as possible.
