Spring Driving Tips: How to Stay Safe on the Road This Season

As spring approaches, it's time to start preparing for the seasonal changes that will impact your driving. With snow starting to melt and temperatures rising, drivers will face new challenges on the road, from wet conditions to increased pedestrian traffic, unpredictable weather, and active wildlife. Taking the time to get your vehicle ready and adjusting your driving habits now will help ensure a smooth and safe transition into the new season. To help you prepare, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of spring driving tips.

Please note: This blog provides a general overview of safe driving tips and auto insurance. It is not all-encompassing and should not be taken as specific advice. Be sure to discuss your unique circumstances with a licenced insurance broker to receive guidance tailored to your situation.

Spring Driving Tip #1: Inspect and Maintain Your Vehicle

The transition from winter to spring can take a toll on your car, so it’s crucial to perform a thorough inspection and complete any necessary vehicle maintenance. Here’s what you should focus on:

Check Your Tires

Winter driving can wear down your tires, especially if you’ve been using winter tires. As temperatures warm up, consider switching to all-season or summer tires. Additionally, check your tire pressure and tread depth. Proper tire pressure ensures better fuel efficiency and handling, while sufficient tread depth provides traction on wet roads.

Replace Wiper Blades

Spring often brings rain showers, making clear visibility essential. If your windshield wipers are leaving streaks or not clearing the glass effectively, it’s time to replace them. Additionally, top up your windshield washer fluid to ensure you can clean off dirt and debris when needed.

Test Your Battery

Cold winter temperatures can weaken your car battery. Have it tested to ensure it’s still holding a strong charge. If it’s older than three years, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Inspect Your Brakes

Your brakes work hard during the winter months, especially in snowy or icy conditions. Have a professional inspect your brake pads and rotors to ensure they’re still in good condition.

Clean Your Car

Winter roads often leave behind salt and grime that can damage your car. Give your vehicle a thorough wash, paying extra attention to the undercarriage to remove any lingering salt.

Spring Driving Tip #2: Prepare for Wet and Slippery Roads

While April showers bring May flowers, they can also create hazardous driving conditions. Wet roads can lead to reduced tire traction and an increased risk of hydroplaning. Here’s how to stay safe:

Slow Down in the Rain

When roads are wet, reduce your speed and increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns to maintain control of your vehicle.

Watch for Puddles

Driving through large puddles can cause you to lose control or damage your car’s undercarriage. If you can’t avoid a puddle, slow down as you approach it to minimize the impact.

Spring Driving Tip #3: Be Mindful of Wildlife

Spring is a time when animals become more active, especially around dawn and dusk. Animals like deer, raccoons, and rabbits are more likely to cross roads, increasing the risk of collisions.

Stay Alert in Rural Areas

If you’re driving in rural or wooded areas, remain cautious around sunrise and sunset. Scan the sides of the road and reduce your speed if you see animal crossing signs.

Use High Beams When Possible

When driving at night in low-traffic areas, use your high beams to improve visibility. This can help you spot animals on or near the road from a distance.

Don’t Swerve

If an animal suddenly crosses your path, avoid swerving. Instead, brake firmly while keeping control of your vehicle. Swerving could lead to a more severe collision with another car or object.

Spring Driving Tip #4: Watch for Increased Pedestrian and Cyclist Traffic

Warmer weather means more people are walking, jogging, and cycling, making it even more critical for drivers to be cautious around pedestrians and cyclists.

Yield to Pedestrians at Crosswalks

Always yield the right of way to pedestrians at marked crosswalks. Even if there’s no traffic light, it’s your responsibility as a driver to stop and allow them to cross safely.

Check Your Blind Spots

Before changing lanes or making turns, double-check your blind spots for cyclists. Many cyclists use bike lanes, and failing to notice them can lead to serious accidents.

Be Patient

Spring brings more outdoor activity, which can mean slower traffic. Practice patience and avoid aggressive driving behaviours to keep yourself and others safe.

Spring Driving Tip #5: Be Prepared for Unpredictable Weather

Spring weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain, fog, or even late-season snowstorms. Being prepared for changing weather conditions is key to staying safe.

Keep an Emergency Kit

Ensure your vehicle’s emergency kit is stocked with essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, and a blanket. It’s also a good idea to keep bottled water and non-perishable snacks in your car.

Plan Ahead

Check the weather forecast before heading out. If heavy rain, strong winds, or snow are expected, plan your trip accordingly or postpone it if necessary.

Adjust Your Driving Style

Reduce your speed in poor weather conditions, increase your following distance, and avoid sudden movements that could cause you to lose control of your car.

Spring Driving Tip #6: Avoid Potholes

The freeze-thaw cycle during winter takes a toll on roads and often leads to potholes forming. Driving through these potholes can cause significant damage to your tires, suspension, and alignment.

Watch the Road Ahead

Stay vigilant and scan the road for potholes. If you can’t avoid one, slow down as much as possible before driving over it to reduce potential damage.

Report Potholes

If you come across a large or dangerous pothole, report it to your local road authority. This helps ensure repairs are made to keep roads safer.

Stay Prepared and Protected This Spring

Spring is a beautiful time of year to hit the road, but it also comes with its own set of driving challenges. By tending to vehicle maintenance, adjusting your driving habits, and remaining cautious of pedestrians, wildlife, and unpredictable weather, you can help improve road safety for everyone.
If you’re looking for added protection for every season, our team of auto insurance experts can help you secure the coverage you need. Request a quote for car insurance or contact a BIG broker so that you can drive with confidence wherever your journey takes you.