During any time of the year, at any time of night or day, motor vehicle accidents can occur. Most drivers, with any experience, are well aware of wintertime inclement weather conditions that present the biggest risks. What some either don’t realize or may forget about is that another dangerous time of year for drivers is in spring.
Car accidents that take place during springtime can be better anticipated if you understand their causes. Though there are many causes of motor vehicle collisions in the spring, here, we’re going to look at some of the most common.
Though some construction does take place during winter, particularly in warmer regions, once the spring weather hits, those orange construction barrels will be everywhere you look. Always slow down in construction areas and follow the recommended speed limit. So important is this that, in construction areas, speeding fines are doubled. Any time you see equipment and workers involved in construction, take care to drive safely and with vigilance.
More Bicycles and Pedestrians
The weather is getting warmer, so people are venturing out en masse. That means an increase in bicycles, motorcycles, pedestrians, etc. who will share the road with cars, while others will drive along the side or on the sidewalks. Regardless, they don’t always watch out for you, so you need to watch out for them. Recklessness on the part of either party frequently ends up in fatality.
Weather Conditions
Sudden springtime weather changes may not be considered as much as wintertime icy and snowy conditions that most people know well. Black ice and sudden, unexpected snowstorms can occur when springtime shifts in the weather occur. Driving safety can also be affected by major storms occurring in spring. These can lead to flooding, reduced traction, limited visibility, and more.
Drunk Drivers
More people are likely to gather at backyard barbecues, parties, ball games, picnics, restaurants, and bars during warmer weather. That often means consuming drugs and/or alcohol and then getting behind the wheel. Accidents and crashes are at a much higher risk and increased by both drugs and alcohol.
Drowsy Drivers
Peoples’ sleep schedules may be disrupted by the daylight savings time switch. So, when they’re behind the wheel, more drivers are likely to struggle with drowsiness. Throughout the United States, a 6% increase in fatal car accidents is seen during the week after “springing forward”.
Corradino & Papa – Where to Turn When Springtime Driving Goes Wrong
With the weather getting nicer, more and more people will be on the road. Drivers, bicycles, motorcycles, pedestrians, and more – venturing out to enjoy the springtime colors and temperatures – will make driving conditions more hazardous.
When the worst happens, and you’re involved in an accident, do not hesitate to contact the legal professionals at Corradino & Papa. The sooner you have us on your side, the better chance you have of your rights being successfully defended.