Spring is here – days are getting warmer and nights are getting lighter. That means no more dark mornings defrosting the car! We’ve also been fortunate that it was a reasonably mild winter, not too many icy mornings or days lost to snow.
However, spring does bring its own hazards; for example, April is traditionally known for its showers and downpours. These showers can make roads treacherous, especially after a long dry spell, and there are several other obstacles that can wreak havoc on the roads in spring.
Here, we’ll discuss the 6 most common springtime driving dangers and how to stay safe on the roads over the coming months.
As we all know, springtime often results in a lot of rain.
This can lead road surfaces to become very slippery, which can mean stopping distances are increased. This, coupled with bad visibility caused by the rain, can cause problems.
To aid with your visibility, ensure that your screen wash bottle is kept topped up with the correct ratio of screen wash to water. Although it can be tempting to grab whatever’s around, it’s important that proper screen wash is utilised – and not washing up liquid!
If your washers are not working properly, this may be because the jets are blocked or the washer pipe is split. Alternatively, the filter inside the bottle maybe blocked – this can be cleaned or replaced quite easily by your local garage.
We also recommend checking your wipers regularly as they can become worn or split, leaving your windscreen smeary and making it hard to see. Wiper blades can also become dirty so give them the occasional clean to keep them in good condition.
At this time of year, it’s not unusual for roads to flood.
Take care when approaching a flooded road. If possible, turn around and find an alternative route. If this is not possible, proceed with caution. Keep your vehicle in a low gear and remember to check your brakes after you exit the flooded area.
High winds can become another issue this time of year. Particularly strong gusts can cause branches and other debris to blow onto the road, creating an obstacle that cars may need to avoid.
You should also be cautious when overtaking high sided vehicles, such as vans and lorries, in windy conditions. They are prone to swaying if the wind catches them at a certain angle, so be sure to give tall vehicles ample space.
It’s so lovely to see the sun out again, but this can prove particularly problematic in spring when the sun is still low in the sky. It can cause a lot of glare, especially at dawn and dusk.
Be sure to use your overhead visor or keep sunglasses within easy reach as the sun can be blinding and dangerous.
Young animals, especially rabbits, pheasants, hedgehogs and deer are venturing out looking for food during spring. Drive with caution on country roads as you never know what maybe around the corner.
There is also an increase in horse riders out hacking and dog walkers using lanes and smaller B roads where there aren’t any pavements. It’s important to slow down to make sure everyone can feel comfortable when out and about.
Be ready to stop if a horse looks nervous or is spooked and avoid using your horn or revving your engine.
Electric vehicles need to be especially careful as horses and riders cannot hear them, and horses can be startled by a vehicle suddenly moving past them.
During springtime, drivers need to expect that tractors are likely to be out and about, moving machinery, muck, livestock and cutting hedges. Allow extra time in your journey if you will be travelling down country lanes so that you don’t feel inclined to make any rash moves.
Most of all – let’s all enjoy this beautiful season and keep safe on our country roads!
We’re all thrilled that the sun is out again and days are getting longer. For many of us, this means more journeys and trips in the car, visiting exciting new places and making the most of the weather.
It’s important to prepare yourself and your vehicle for the season ahead, assessing any problems in advance so you can get out there and enjoy yourself.
At Sunrise Service and MOT Centre, we offer a range of maintenance and repair services – perfect for getting your vehicle up to scratch for the spring outings ahead. We also do body shop restoration if it’s the appearance of your vehicle that needs a bit of a spring clean.
Running for over 20 years, our garage has built up a loyal customer base in Dorset and we are always on hand to help with any vehicle services.
To find out how we could help you with your car this season, fill out our contact form or call us on 01258 459 798.