As the weather grows warmer and the days become longer, you may feel revitalized by the spring season after a long, cold winter. Though many love this time of year as the flowers bloom and the sun shines, it’s important to understand that, like any season, spring has a unique set of driving risks that motorists should be on the lookout for. The following blog explores the most common spring driving hazards you should know about and explores how motor vehicle accident attorneys can help you explore your legal options following a collision.
What spring driving hazards should drivers be on the lookout for?
One of the most common hazards drivers will encounter in the spring is wet, rainy weather. Because of the changing temperatures, it’s more likely that the forecast will call for rain. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to experience hydroplaning in this weather, which occurs when the roads become slick with moisture, causing a car’s tires to lose traction. As a result, a driver may lose control of their vehicle and slide across the road. If you encounter wet weather, increase the distance with the vehicles around you, slow down, and avoid puddles to help yourself and others on the road stay safe.
Another common occurrence you will see on the roads in spring is an influx of people and animals out and about. As the weather grows warmer, people are more inclined to spend time outdoors. As such, you must be on the lookout for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. Additionally, animals are emerging from hibernation in search of food, so staying alert to wildlife on and near roadways is essential.
Finally, you should know that potholes are much more common in the springtime. Essentially, these occur when water gets into the porous surface of the road and freezes, which causes it to expand. As such, the asphalt grows weaker over time until a pothole has formed. Hitting a pothole left unrepaired can cause serious damage to your vehicle or make you lose control of the car.
It’s important to understand that many of these hazards can be avoided if drivers pay attention to the road and obey traffic laws. However, if a driver is distracted or speeding, they may not see a hazard on the road in time, which can lead to a collision with another vehicle.
What should I do if I’m injured in a collision?
In the event you are injured in a collision, you must know you could be entitled to financial compensation for the injuries you endured. If your accident was the fault of another driver failing to pay attention or obey traffic laws, you may be able to hold them liable for negligence. However, if the accident is because a municipality fails to repair and ensure their roadways are safe, you can bring a lawsuit against them.
When you are injured, the most important thing you can do is connect with an attorney. Unfortunately, many people do not realize they may be entitled to financial compensation. However, working with an attorney can help you explore your legal options and take the necessary steps to pursue justice for the damages you’ve suffered. At Friedman Schuman Layser , we understand how devastating a car accident can be, which is why our team is ready to help. Connect with us today to learn more.